The Ministry of Health has renewed its call on citizens to strictly adhere to preventive measures to limit the spread of seasonal influenza, amid a noticeable increase in infections and the emergence of new fast-spreading variants.
Health authorities stressed the importance of wearing face masks in enclosed or crowded spaces, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and maintaining regular handwashing with soap and water. The ministry also emphasized covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing using disposable tissues and discarding them immediately after use.
The ministry further recommended ventilating homes daily for at least 30 minutes and seeking medical attention without delay in case of serious symptoms, such as shortness of breath or high fever lasting more than three days.
Protecting Vulnerable Groups
As part of efforts to protect vulnerable populations, the Ministry of Health advised keeping infants away from sick individuals and smokers, in order to reduce the risk of transmission. It also reminded the public that vaccination against seasonal flu remains available, particularly for elderly people, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from chronic diseases.
Common symptoms of seasonal flu include fever, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, sore throat, and runny nose.
New Variant Under Surveillance
In this context, Dr. Riadh Dagfous, Director General of the National Pharmacovigilance Center, stated that the new K variant, derived from the H3N2 influenza strain, is characterized by rapid transmission but does not pose a major health threat.
Meanwhile, virology specialist Dr. Mahjoub Aouni urged elderly individuals, chronic disease patients, and those with weakened immune systems to get vaccinated against seasonal influenza, especially in light of the growing spread of the new strain.
Health authorities concluded by emphasizing that prevention remains the most effective tool to limit the spread of influenza and protect public health.
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