The Department of Health warns that 2024 South African flu season is set to be a doozy. Department spokesperson, Foster Mohale, urges all vulnerable citizens to take preemptive measures against respiratory infections and syncytial viruses (RSVs). TimesLive also reports that the COVID-19 virus is continuing to circulate at low levels this winter.
2024 SOUTH AFRICAN FLU SEASON
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – or the common cold – is beginning to circulate heavily in the 2024 South African flu season, says the department. Likewise, it says it’s seeing a rise in influenza infections for the season. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has a surveillance system monitoring the circulation of these respiratory viruses.
It has seen fit to notify the department that it is now peak season of RSV. It also wants to stress that while some symptoms may be common, RSVs should not be confused with COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 virus. Similarly, influenza usually follows close behind RSV in the 2024 South African flu season, says the department.
SEVERE ILLNESS OR DEATH
Most diseases caused by influenza, like RSV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses, are mild. However, the department warns that the viruses may still cause severe illness and even death, particularly in individuals with acute conditions. That said, there is no indication the 2024 South African flu season will be more severe than other years. However, the department says the elderly (65 and older), children and those with underlying illnesses should get vaccinated.
These underlying illnesses include heart and lung disease, people living with HIV and tuberculosis, and pregnant women. Influenza vaccines are available for free at public clinics to anyone in these risk groups. Similarly, it can be purchased privately at pharmacies by those who don’t fall into one of the above risk groups.
PREVENT THE SPREAD
Influenza is only contagious for three to eight days. If you are sick, the department urges you to prevent the spread by:
- Wearing masks.
- Social distancing.
- Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
- Don’t touch your face.
- Wash your hands.
- Avoid shaking hands.
- Do not share cups and eating utensils.
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