Swine Flu: symptoms and prevention
Following a number of cases where lives have been claimed within the province, Review spoke to general practitioners from health facilities in Polokwane who advised residents on certain Swine Flue preventative measures.
POLOKWANE – Infection, Prevention and Control Manager at Mediclinic Limpopo, Kevin Nxumalo, says they have had several Influenza A cases (which include different strains of H1N1, H3N2) since the beginning of June 2018, which have swiftly been dealt with, using Tami-flu treatment.
Swine flu, also known as the H1N1 virus, is a type influenza virus that causes symptoms similar to regular flu.
“It is challenging to diagnose patients that have been infected with the H1n1/H3N2 virus, as some patients might not be infected with the virus, but rather, have prolonged flu like symptoms. To diagnose a patient, we will perform a throat swab test, which is a general test to search for any of the Influenza A viruses, as well as X-Ray scans. If the virus is found, we then start treatment immediately and depending on the severity of the infection, the patient can either be admitted and kept at the hospital or be sent to take the treatment on their own at home,” he explained.
Nxumalo advised residents to to go for annual flu vaccinations as the virus is a high risk and affects the both upper and lower respiratory tract.
“Anyone who catches a cold or flu, which takes longer to heal than usual, must take further steps to consult with their general practitioner so that they can be checked for possible Influenza A infections,” he added.
Swine Flu symptoms include:
• Chills
• Fever
• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
“Those who are at a higher risk of contracting the virus are children under the age of 5-years-old; adults over the age of 65-years-old; people who are on chronic medication such as Bufferin therapy; people with compromised immune systems (due to a disease such as HIV/AIDS or TB); pregnant women as well as people with chronic illnesses such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes,” explained a local doctor.
You may also want to read: [TAKE NOTE] Swine Flu cases have been reported in Polokwane
Steps to prevent the spread of flu:
• Get vaccinated every year. “A simple sneeze can cause thousands of germs to spread through the air. The virus is airborne and can linger on tables and surface areas like door knobs, waiting to be picked up,” explained a local doctor.
• Washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water or carry hand sanitizer on your person.
• Stay home from work or school if you are ill.
• Don’t touch your nose, mouth, or eyes when ill, but if you do, immediately wash your hands.
• Try and stay away from infected people.
reporter29@nmgroup.co.za
