2023-12-27 18:01:50
A few days before the start of family reunions, brotherly kisses and New Year’s handshakes, a surprise guest often comes to spoil the party: the virus.
This time of year always coincides with an increase in cases, which leads some infected people to go to their hospital emergency room. “We are starting to have influenza, minor stomach illnesses and cases of COVID, but I would say that we are average compared to other years. “It’s not something unusual,” comments Dr. Sébastien Burelle, from the Centre-de-la-Mauricie Hospital Center.
The doctor reminds us that a flu like influenza can cause a fever that can last four or five days without any need to worry. “We have a fever, we have a sore throat, all over our body. You can simply stay home and take care of yourself by hydrating yourself properly, taking Tylenol or Advil for fever and pain. And obviously, take measures to avoid spreading infections,” he recommends.
A consultation at the emergency room or with your family doctor will be indicated, he continues, if the fever persists after five days. “If we are no longer able to eat or drink. Or that we run out of breath at the slightest effort. Maybe it’s time to see a doctor. »
Dr. Burelle also suggests that the population go to the Are you sick? page. (www.ciusssmcq.ca/conseils-sante/vous-etes-malade/) from the CIUSSS MCQ which provides information on different infectious viruses (flu, colds, gastro, sinusitis, laryngitis, COVID-19, etc.) and advice to treat them. The Front Line Access Guide site (https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/fr) is also a good tool for knowing where to go in the network if you are sick.
The vaccine: an effective tool
The author of the book Cultivate your health also recalls that vaccination remains an excellent means of protection against viruses. “We have influenza and COVID vaccines that can decrease the rate of infection. It is particularly important if you are in a vulnerable situation,” emphasizes Dr. Burelle, who particularly recommends it for people suffering from asthma, chronic illnesses or who must take medications that reduce the immune system.
And what about healthy young adults aged 30 or 40? “It is not a social recommendation to get vaccinated annually for influenza, but it is not contraindicated. If someone blows it, it’s no problem. »
Regarding COVID-19, Dr. Burelle expects an increase in cases in the coming weeks in the same way as influenza. “Like every winter, there are always more infections of all kinds. So for COVID, it will probably be the same, but the fact remains that the cases we encounter are much milder than at the start of the pandemic in 2020.”
Finally, the family doctor suggests respecting basic civic measures if you are sick. “We try to avoid meetings or protect ourselves by wearing a mask if we absolutely have to go out to buy groceries or errands. And if we have a family reunion planned and we are infected, we put it off for another day,” concludes Dr. Burelle.
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