Flu on rise, so get vaccinated

The Department of Health urges the public to take extra precautionary measures to protect themselves and their loved ones against respiratory infections, which are expected to increase in winter.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is currently at peak circulation in SA, while influenza virus infections are increasing. Covid-19 continues to circulate at low levels.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases has a surveillance system that monitors the circulation of respiratory viruses throughout the country and has notified the department that it is currently the peak season of RSV, which can be confused by some people with Covid-19 or SARS-CoV-2 because of common symptoms.

The RSV virus causes illness mainly in young children but also contributes to respiratory illness in older individuals.

Influenza virus season usually follows RSV, and we are seeing increased cases. While most diseases caused by influenza, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses are mild, these viruses can cause severe illness and even death, particularly in individuals with conditions placing them at high risk of severe disease.

The influenza season is expected to start in the next few weeks. It is advisable for people, especially those at high risk of severe influenza (adults aged 65 and older, people with underlying illnesses such as heart and lung disease, people living with HIV and TB, and pregnant women) to get the influenza vaccine to prevent severe health complications if they contract this virus.

The vaccine is available in public clinics free of charge (on a first-come-first-serve basis) to people falling into the abovementioned risk groups.

People can also buy the vaccine in the private sector at several pharmacies for other people who fall into high-risk groups and for those who do not fall into one of the risk groups but want to protect themselves from influenza.

The influenza virus spreads mainly from one person to another by respiratory droplets, and co-infections with other respiratory viruses can occur, making it vital that people always cover their noses and mouths when they cough or sneeze.

People are urged to stay home when sick, not touch their face with unwashed hands, and avoid close contact (kissing, shaking hands, and sharing cups and utensils) with others when they are ill, especially those at risk of severe disease.

Some common symptoms of influenza include, but are not limited to, a runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing.

Parents and caregivers are urged to take their children who experience breathing difficulties, do not drink enough fluids and have deteriorating symptoms to the nearest health facility or healthcare providers for medical attention without delay.

People infected with influenza are usually contagious for three to eight days. Preventative measures such as wearing masks and social distancing are recommended, especially for those who are ill.