NICD concerned as flu cases spike
The number of influenza cases has been steadily rising since early April and May.
A consistent rise in flu cases has been reported in six provinces including Gauteng, according to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).
The NICD reported that the number of influenza cases has been steadily rising since early April and May.
NICD received reports of influenza clusters in schools and workplaces.
The influenza virus causes a respiratory tract infection that results in influenza, sometimes known as the flu.
“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 NICD said.
The NICD encouraged people to get a flu vaccination to prevent its spread.
“The influenza vaccine remains the primary means for preventing seasonal influenza infection.
“It should be administered before the influenza season (March to April).
“However, even if the season has already started, it is never too late to get vaccinated, especially individuals who are at high risk of severe influenza illness or complications.”
Elderly people (65 years and older) and children younger than two years old are also at increased risk.
“The virus spreads from person to 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 NICD added.
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People at high risk include pregnant women, people living with HIV, people with chronic illnesses or conditions like diabetes, lung disease, tuberculosis, heart disease, renal disease and obesity.
To prevent contracting or spreading the flu:
– Avoid close contact with sick individuals
– Stay home when sick
– Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
– Regularly clean hands
– Avoid touching the mouth, eyes, and nose, and clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces
“Although most people with influenza will present with mild illness, this virus can cause severe illness.
“Patients may require hospitalisation or some can die, especially in individuals at risk of getting severe influenza illness or complications,” said the department.
The South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre (Savic), which vaccinated people at the Grace Kingdom Church in Ga-Rankuwa as part of their annual flu drive, agreed.
“The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against influenza (flu) is to get a flu vaccine every flu season,” the centre
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