DOH warns against spread of influenza amid erratic weather
PHOTO from Department of Health Facebook page
MANILA, Philippines—Influenza, also known as flu, is common during rainy and summer season. But it also easily spreads even summer because of the erratic weather. The Department of Health on Tuesday night made a list of tips on how to prevent the spread of influenza.
Flu is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. This type of flu is not the same as the stomach “flu” virus that causes diarrhea and vomiting, the DOH posted on its Facebook account.
“Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people who have weakened immune system are highly susceptible to flu. Incubation period is 1-3 days,” it added.
The flu is caused by influenza virus (A, B, or C). It can be transmitted into the respiratory tract when someone coughs or sneezes or when a contact is made with surfaces, material and clothing contaminated with discharges of an infected person, the DOH said.
The following are the signs and symptoms of influenza:
• Fever of at least 38°C
• Headache
• Runny nose, sore throat, cough, or other respiratory manifestations
• May or may not have muscle or joint pains
Treatments for influenza include:
• Use of antiviral agents, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza), within the first 2 days may shorten the illness and help prevent serious complications
• Have adequate rest.
• Increase intake of oral fluids & nutritious foods
• Take paracetamol for fever. Aspirin should not be given to children.
• Antibiotics should be given only to complications of influenza, such as pneumonia or otitis media.
The DOH said that influenza may be prevented through an annual vaccination. There should also be minimal contact with a person with influenza. Crowded places must be avoided, and one must distance himself by at least one meter from people who are coughing or have influenza.
One must also wash hands frequently with soap and water.
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