08 Jul 2019

Medical practitioners say this year’s influenza outbreak appears to have taken its toll earlier than in the past years. Influenza, commonly known as flu, is an infectious disease caused by an influenza virus. Symptoms can be mild to severe.

The most common symptoms include: high fever, runny nose, sore throat, muscle pains, headache, coughing, sneezing, and feeling tired.

In an interview with BOPA, Troyalt Pharmacy Manager Stephen Eniolorunda said compared to the other years, the largest group of people needing medical attention because of flu were children.

“It’s no fun for an adult to deal with flu symptoms. It’s even harder for babies and young children.  They are more likely to get other related health issues because of the illness. Influenza can be more dangerous for them than a cold,” he said.

Mr Eniolorunda said it was advisable for those with flu to stay away from other people, saying those infected should cover their mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing. “If you don’t have a tissue handy, the inside crook of your elbow is a great place to do it, so you don’t get germs on your hands,” he said.

Private Medical Practitioner Dr Raymond Palane who also said the 2019 influenza outbreak appeared to have come earlier than in the past years, said flu was more common in winter because people spend more time in close contact so the virus spread easily.

He however said most people recover after a few days while some get conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or sinus and ear infections.

Dr Palane advised that people must wash their hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol hand sanitizer when soap and water were not handy, noting that people who were asthmatic or had heart problems should be extra cautious.

Drinking plenty of clear fluids; water, broth, and sports drinks, Dr Palane said helps in avoiding dehydration. “If you already have the virus, try a humidifier or saline spray to ease stuffy nose and gargle with salt water for a sore throat,” he said.

He said in children, flu symptoms included fast or troubled breathing, bluish skin colour, severe irritability, fever plus a rash, lack of interaction and not drinking fluids. In adults, he said symptoms included breathing trouble, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, dizziness or confusion, severe or persistent vomiting. A cross section of those who got flu reported of powerlessness and loses appetite. ENDS