Concern as flu cases rise

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has warned of a steady rise in flu cases in six provinces, including KZN, and encouraged people to seek medical attention if symptoms do not clear within days.

The institute said private laboratories have detected increasing numbers of influenza cases with reports of influenza clusters in schools and workplaces.

The 2023, influenza season started towards the end of April. While a notable increase has been recorded, the NICD urged people not to panic.

As of 28 May, the most commonly detected subtype and lineage are influenza A (H3N2), followed by influenza A (H1N1), and influenza B Victoria.

“Influenza A (H1N1), which is sometimes incorrectly referred to as swine flu, has been one of the circulating seasonal influenza strains following its emergence in 2009.

“The term ‘swine flu’ should not be used as it causes unnecessary panic. The clinical course of infection and management of this strain is similar to other influenza strains,” the NICD said in a statement on Monday.

However, the public is encouraged to vaccinate as this ‘remains the primary means for preventing seasonal influenza infection’.

“Ideally, the vaccine 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 for individuals who have high risk of severe influenza illness or complications.”

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, the elderly (65 years and older), and children less than two years old.

To prevent contracting or spreading the influenza virus:
• 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

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