MHMS is monitoring an increase in influenza-like illness in Honiara and Western Province, with Influenza A detected.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS), through its routine disease surveillance system, continues to closely monitor the situation regarding flu-like illness across the country.
Recent surveillance data for last reporting week of August 24-30 indicates an increase of cases with influenza-like illness (ILI) reported from surveillance sites in Honiara and Western province. Routine lab testing data has detected Influenza A in majority of samples tested in August. Influenza A is a highly contagious virus that causes the flu. It attacks your respiratory system, which includes your nose, throat, and lungs. Additional samples have been collected last week and are pending testing.
The Ministry is continuing to monitor the situation through its routine surveillance and laboratory systems to better understand the circulation of respiratory viruses and to guide appropriate public health measures.
Flu-like illnesses can spread easily from person to person, particularly when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Common symptoms may include fever, dry cough, body aches, runny nose, and sore throat.
MHMS advises the public to:
- Practise good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
- Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or into the elbow.
- Avoid close contact with others when feeling unwell.
- Stay home and rest when experiencing flu-like symptoms, where possible.
- Drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables
- If fever, take Panadol as advise by a nurse or doctor or use sponge to reduce fever
- Seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or if there are concerns about illness, particularly for young children, older people, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions.
- Maintain a clean environment by disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and improving indoor air circulation.
The MHMS encourages members of the public to remain vigilant and continue practising good respiratory hygiene to help reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates to the public as necessary.
SOURCE// MHMS PRESS RELEASE
