Vulnerable groups at grave risk from seasonal flu and air pollution, warn health experts
Older people, expecting mothers, children below the age of two and those with chronic illnesses are advised to take precautions as a nasty seasonal flu is spreading in the country.
Health experts warn that this time the flu will affect the respiratory system with more intensity due to poor air quality levels in the country.
“Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. Our country has two peak seasons after monsoon seasons. An influenza peak season has now started and will continue until January,” the country’s Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Samitha Ginige said.
He said while most children and adults will recover from flu-like symptoms ranging from fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, body pains and headache, vulnerable groups
need to seek immediate medical care from a qualified medical professional or the nearest hospital as they face the risk of contracting pneumonia.
Rest and plenty of warm liquids
are essential while down with the flu. Avoiding crowds and frequent hand washing/ sanitising, wearing masks will help prevent the virus from spreading.
The current, poor air quality levels in the country is also impacting those who are already suffering from respiratory ailments, said H.D.S.Premasiri, senior scientist of the National Building Research Organization (NBRO)’s Air Quality Unit. “The North East monsoonal winds will bring polluted air from north Indian cities,” he said.
Gampaha, Jaffna and Kandy reported the highest air pollution this week. Gampaha’s air quality level went up to 204 this week, making it the most polluted city.
According to the U.S. Embassy’s air quality monitor in Colombo, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) level stood at 160 (particulate matter 2.5) yesterday.
COVID -19 deaths too saw a slight increase with three deaths reported on Friday. The deceased were above the age of 60.