Similarly, as with other flu strains, individuals who have pre-existing co-morbidities may be at greater risk of falling seriously ill, particularly if they do not seek medical attention early on.
Pre-existing co-morbidities typically describe one or more health conditions that existed before the onset of influenza. These conditions can typically include anything from asthma to hypertension, diabetes and heart disease, to mention but a few, and can lead to complications which can be dangerous.
The National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) states the following in the 2017 National Flu Guidelines on swine flu:
“Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, previously known as swine flu, has been circulating as one of the influenza seasonal strains since 2010.
“Persons who have been diagnosed with this strain during the influenza season should be managed as is usual for influenza.
No specific public health intervention should be instituted for contacts of patients in whom influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 is identified.
In the majority of otherwise healthy young persons, influenza is an uncomplicated infection, and in rare events healthy individuals may present with severe influenza illness or complications.”
“Severe Influenza infections can often be prevented through having an annual flu vaccination, and individuals who fall into a high risk category are advised to discuss vaccination with their doctor,” Swart advised.
(Source: https://www.nicd.ac.za/index.php/influenza-season-update-3/).
