2023-05-17 10:03:56
An upward trend in flu cases is observed. It should increase with the onset of winter, which promises to be harsh. More than 12,000 cases were recorded in two weeks. Additional precautions are recommended, warns Dr. Fazil Khodabocus.
With the temperature drops announced by the Mauritius Meteorological Services (MMS) this winter, it is essential to strengthen the immune system, follow health recommendations, get vaccinated against the flu and take care of our overall health. This is to reduce the risk of complications related to the flu and Covid-19. This is recommended by Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, a public health physician.
The figures show an upward trend, with 6,706 acute respiratory infections reported from May 1-7 and 6,126 from May 8-14. This represents an increase from the figures for April, when the number of cases fluctuated between 4,000 and 5,000 per week. This corresponds to the situation observed at the same period in 2022.
HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS
“This increase is attributed to the cold and dry climatic conditions prevailing in the country in recent weeks, thus favoring the spread of influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus, adenoviruses, rhinoviruses and Covid-19”, explains the Dr Khodabocus. He adds that it is imperative to take precautions, in particular by consulting a doctor as soon as the first symptoms appear, especially since the flu and Covid-19 present similar symptoms. “Consultation or rapid antigen testing (RAT) is recommended to receive appropriate care, especially for fever, sore throat, cough, body aches and runny nose,” he says.
The flu, like Covid-19, being highly contagious, it is necessary to stay at home for a week in the event of contamination, so as not to infect others, adds Dr Khodabocus. He also points out that it is essential to take precautions when coughing and sneezing by covering the mouth and nose. This is to avoid the dispersion of droplets in the air or the contamination of surfaces. “It is best to use disposable paper tissues which must then be placed in a closed bin,” he points out. The public health doctor reminds us that it is also important to wash your hands regularly with soap and water, or to use a hydroalcoholic solution. Wearing a mask is recommended, especially in poorly ventilated places, he insists.
Strengthen the immune system
With weather forecasts predicting drastic drops in temperature in some areas, especially at night, it is crucial to take extra precautions now to boost our immune system. Dr. Fazil Khodabocus recommends having a healthy and balanced diet, practicing regular physical activity, fighting stress, improving the quality of sleep and not smoking, because cigarettes are a risk factor for complications of influenza and Covid-19.
Vaccination
Influenza vaccination is strongly recommended for people including infants, pregnant women, and people with co-morbidities such as cancer, asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. This will help prevent complications, including bronchitis, sinusitis, otitis or even pneumonia, which is one of the most serious consequences of the flu. Dr. Khodabocus thus calls not to trivialize the disease. Vaccination can be carried out from six months and is available in regional hospitals from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday, as well as from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturdays.
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