The National Department of Health has warned the public about the rising cases of influenza in the country since the beginning of May.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) notified the department of the increasing circulation of influenza around the country.
It has been reported that cases have been steadily increasing since April 10, and the NICD received reports of influenza clusters in schools and workplaces.
According to Mayo Clinic, influenza is an infection of the nose, throat and lungs, which are part of the respiratory system.
Most cases have been identified in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape and the North West.
A statement seen by Media24 which explains influenza says the following:
“Two types of influenza viruses commonly infect humans, namely A and B. The flu viruses are typically in circulation before the winter season in South Africa,” the statement said, which was seen by the publication.
It has also been reported that the virus is able to spread from one person to another person through inhalation of infected respiratory droplets as people are sneezing, coughing or talking.
“A person can also be infected by touching contaminated objects or surfaces that have the flu virus on them and then touching their mouth, eyes or nose,” the Department added.
Although influenza is commonly called the flu, it’s not the same as stomach “flu” viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Most people with the flu get better on their own. But sometimes, influenza and its complications can be deadly.
People most at risk are:
- Young children under age 2
- Adults older than age 65
- Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
- People who are pregnant or plan to be pregnant during flu season
- People with weakened immune systems
- American Indians or Alaska Natives
- People who have chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease and diabetes
- People with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
People infected with the virus should cover their mouth when coughing with a tissue or coughing into the elbow.
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- Wear a mask
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
- Make use of alcohol-based sanitizer
- Stay at home and keep a distance from others
- Get vaccinated against the flu (influenza vaccine)
