The National Department of
Health has urged members of the public to take extra precautionary measures to
protect their loved ones as respiratory infections are expected to increase
over the season.
Departmental spokesperson
Foster Mohale said the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was currently at peak
circulation in the country with influenza virus starting to increase. He said
some of the common symptoms include, but not limited, runny nose, decrease in
appetite and coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing.
“People infected with
influenza are usually contagious for three to eight days. Preventative measures
such as wearing of masks and social distancing ae recommended, especially for
those who are ill,” he said.
It was advisable for people,
especially at high risk, to get the influenza vaccine which is available in
public clinics on a first come first serve basis and in pharmacies. “Those who
can get the vaccine from public clinics include adults aged 65 and over, people
with underlying sicknesses and people living with HIV and tuberculosis
including pregnant women,” he said.
“The influenza virus spreads
mainly from one person to another by respiratory droplets and co-infections. It
is important for people to always cover their nose and mouth when they cough or
sneeze, stay home when sick. They should not touch one’s face with unwashed
hands and avoid contact with others when sick,”Mohale said.
The National
Institute for Communicable Diseases had a surveillance system which monitors
the circulation of respiratory viruses throughout the country. He said the RSV
could be confused withCOVID-19 or SARS-COV-2 due to common symptoms. “While
most diseases caused by influenza, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses are mild, these
viruses may cause severe illnesses and even death among citizens, particularly
individuals with conditions placing them at high risk of severe disease,”
Mohale said.
