Health issues alert for cases of influenza and among the recommendations is the use of a mask

guatemalalacapital_iqw7v5 November 8, 2022

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health authorities issued an alert in prevention of the increase in cases of influenza nationwideaccording to a notice that was published this Monday, November 7.

The epidemiological alert that the Ministry of Health and Social Assistance (MSPAS) activated seeks to establish the guidelines so that the instances of that portfolio attend to patients who present possible symptoms or the diagnosis is confirmed.

The Health portfolio recalled that influenza is a contagious respiratory disease It mainly affects the nose, throat, bronchi and in some cases, the lungs. “The virus is easily transmitted from one person to another”displays the notice.

In addition, on the symptoms of influenza, it was indicated that they usually appear suddenly and that they can be: fever, cough, sore throat, pain when swallowing food and fluids coming out of the nose or runny nose. The condition can also cause a stuffy or stuffy nose and tiredness.

Sometimes it also causes vomiting and diarrhea in children.

Although any age group can be affected by influenza, the World Health Organization establishes that some are more at risk than others, such as children under 5 years of age, older adults, pregnant women and health service workers.

Also read: What is the difference between coronavirus, flu or influenza

How to prevent influenza?

The Health portfolio reported a series of recommendations that are key to preventing influenza:

Avoid close contact with sick people
Avoid participating in crowds
Stay home when sick
Cover your mouth and nose with a mask.
Constant hand washing with soap and water, or alcohol gel
Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth
Adopt other good health habits, such as cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces at home, work, or school, especially when someone is sick
In case of children under 5 years of age, it is suggested to vaccinate
In case of presenting symptoms of respiratory infection, go to your nearest health service