Is cooler weather behind a flu spike?
DOCTORS EXPLAIN CAUSES OF HIGHER CASES, RECOMMEND VACCINATION TO COPE WITH STRAINS
Common symptoms of flu are a runny nose, fever, cough, body pain and loss of taste or smell in some cases. It is best to get a PCR test to check for Covid-19.
Several doctors in the UAE have observed a spike in flu cases following the drop in temperature brought about by the recent rains. They advised parents to be extra cautious as most cases are of babies and children who complain of cold and cough with fever.
There is, however, no cause for alarm as normal viral infections are more widespread during winter, the doctors said.
Dr Diya Abdul Rasheed, specialist paediatrics at Aster Hospital Sharjah, told Gulf News: “During winter, we generally see a spike in flu cases. This year, the numbers have gone up. In the past two years, people were wearing face masks and many were working from home. As life returned to normal, flu cases spiked.”
Babies and kids vulnerable
He added: “The recent heavy rains caused a sudden drop in temperature. This led to a spike in viral infections in the last two weeks. At our clinics, we are seeing more parents bring their children and babies with fever, sore throat and cold. Some complain of cough as well. While some are cases of flu, others suffer from viral fever.”
The number of people getting infected has gone up in the last two weeks, according to Dr Rasheed. He said: “There are hundreds of viruses in and around us — 60 to 80 per cent of kids coming to our clinics are affected by viral infections, and the rest are affected by bacterial infections that require one course of antibiotic or hospitalisation. Generally, people get better in a week’s time. Those having cough, however, might take a little longer to get a respite.”
‘Nothing to worry’
Dr Deepak Dube, specialist Internal Medicine at International Modern Hospital Dubai, assured there is nothing to worry about. He said: “Normally, viral infections are more widespread during winter.”
He added: “Influenza or flu is a viral infection caused by the virus called Influenza A, B and C. It is spread easily but luckily it can be prevented by vaccination, social distancing and maintaining hygiene.
“Vaccination is completely safe even during pregnancy, and is advocated. Vaccination — preferably received every September before the onset of winter — is administered every year to cope with the virus’ new strains.”
“Common symptoms of flu are runny nose, fever, cough, body pain, loss of taste or smell may happen but rarely. It is then best to get a PCR test done to determine whether or not it is Covid-19,” Dr Dube added.
He said some patients may develop pneumonia. Pregnant women may be at a higher risk of complications. And if symptoms become severe, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Tamiflu for five days
“The cure and management of symptoms can be done by giving Tamiflu tablet twice a day for five days. It can also be given to persons in proximity to the infected individual as prophylactic [preventive] therapy.”
Dr Nuran Nergiz, specialist Family Medicine at Canadian Specialist Hospital Dubai, said the best prevention against flu is seasonal vaccination.
“For both cold and flu, trying to avoid crowds, wearing facemask, washing of hands regularly with soap, and having a healthy diet to keep immunity strong will help one from getting infected,” she said.
“As for a cure, if the patient has a cold, medicines that relieve symptoms are prescribed. A healthy diet and increased fluid intake also help. If it is a flu case, antiviral medicines are added to the prescription.”
Personal hygiene
Dr Jyoti Upadhyay, specialist Internal Medicine at Aster Hospital – Mankhool, said personal hygiene plays a crucial role in protecting oneself against flu and other viral infections.
“Avoiding contact with an already infected person; frequent washing of hands and not touching one’s face and eyes can prevent the spread of the infection. Sick people should avoid contact with others. Flu vaccination is safe and effective to protect oneself,” she said.