The Ministry of Health is aware of an upsurge in the number of persons presenting to clinics and emergency rooms with fever, cough, sore throat, aches and pains. These symptoms are usual for this time of year i.e. the post-Christmas/Carnival season when conditions are right for the transmission of respiratory viruses such as those which cause common cold and influenza (the flu).
Such conditions include an influx of persons from countries where winter is peak “flu season”; a chill in the local air temperature, plus the tendency for some persons to tired and sleep-deprived having indulged in unrestrained festivity.
Complicating matters are the irritating effects in the eyes, nose and throat of the exposure to smoke from roadside grills, and the depressing effect on the body of the over-consumption of alcohol. Under these circumstances, a toll is taken on the body’s natural ability to fight off germs that are spread by coughing, sneezing and contaminated food.
The general public is therefore informed as follows:
The vast majority of fever-related, aches and pain illnesses at this time of year are caused by viruses.
These viruses are of the types which cause the common cold and influenza or the flu. They are spread by coughing and sneezing.
On average, cough and cold viruses, and influenza viral illnesses last 3 to 5 days. The flu is associated with more muscle aches and pains.
Protection includes maintaining good hydration and good nutrition with fresh, local fruits, vegetables, provisions, and fluids. Persons who exercise regularly and who have a healthy schedule of rest and recreation are less likely to be affected. Persons who are deprived of sleep, skipping meals and consuming large amounts of alcohol are more likely to be affected.
* The best preventive measure is either to avoid contact with persons who are coughing and sneezing or to cover the nose and mouth if you have a cough or sneeze.
Simple personal hygiene habits prevent the spread of infections among family members, office workers, school and nursery attendees. They include:
* Covering the nose and face when coughing and sneezing. If absorbent tissue is used to cover, discard immediately in an appropriate bin. If the hand is used to cover, wash the hands immediately with soap and water. Remember to cover up the cough and sneeze.
* Keep warm during chilly nights. Avoid getting wet during rain showers to prevent a drop in the body temperature below the normal range of 98-99 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Centigrade.
The following are key medical facts:
Fever is a normal body response to an infection which means that by the time a persons feels the effects, the common cold virus or the flu virus is already established for several days.
These infections run their course in about 3 to 5 days. Medical science has no medication cures for the viruses that cause common colds and influenza. Antibiotics are absolutely useless; they are prescribed by a medical doctor if a bacterial infection is suspected or proven.
For pain relief and fever control, Paracetamol type brands are recommended provided that the stated dose is closely followed.
Aspirin must not be used in children under 8 years and in persons with a bleeding disorder.
Uncomplicated illness may be adequately treated at home with rest, nutrition, positive attitude, and time.
Persons with diabetes, cancer or who are taking corticosteroid medication should always pay particular attention to their health but moreso during virus seasons.
Medical attention should be sought in the following instances
Fever in infants under 2 months
Difficulty breathing
Fever lasting more than 72 hours
Bleeding from the mouth or intestines
Dehydration
Severe weakness, fatigue and pain.
The Ministry of Health recommends that persons develop a relationship with a primary care provider such as a District Nurse, General Practitioner or Family Doctor, Pediatrician or Internist. Primary care providers, whether in public health or private practice, should be the first point of contact if there are urgent questions or medical care needs.
