In interview for Formula Radio with Azucena Uresti, Alejandro Maciasa renowned doctor specialized in internal medicine and infections and former 2009 influenza commissioner in Mexico, shared his analysis of the current influenza season and provided guidance on preventative measures.
Alejandro Macías highlighted that, after a relatively calm period in the 2020-2022 season, influenza returned with greater intensity last year.
“There was a relative silence of influenza in the 2020-2022 season, last year it came with more intensityand more is expected in the cold months,” said the specialist.
He assured that, although the current season has been advanced, the numbers remain within the typical for this time of the year.
“The previous season was very intense, 2022-2023, this 2024 is anticipated, but this one is, let’s say typical in numbersWhat happens is that now we are more awarethere are more diagnoses, there is a rebound, but it is not as expected.”
Regarding vaccination, the specialist emphasized the importance of administer the vaccine against influenza as soon as possible.
He pointed out that, since they can circulate up to four viruses other than influenza in a year, it is crucial to get vaccinated as soon as you recover from the disease.
“As soon as you feel better, the flu is one, but up to four different viruses are actually circulatingwe can have two influenzas in the same year,” he explained.
Regarding coexistence with covid-19, the former commissioner indicated that the influenza and covid-19 will circulate simultaneously during the cold months.
He suggested that, as with covid-19, it is essential avoid large groups of peoplewear face masks and, above all, get vaccinated.
Where is the flu vaccine sold?
When asked about the availability of the influenza vaccine, Alejandro Macías assured that can be found in pharmaciessome stores self service and vaccination clinics.
“In all centers where there are large pharmacy chains and some self-service stores have the vaccine, and of course, the vaccination clinics.”
In connection with the sale of the Influenza vaccinerecalled that it was already available in 2009, although at that time the same did not exist vaccination culture that now.
Regarding covid-19, the specialist expressed his worry due to the delay in marketing of the vaccines. He stressed the need for speed up the process to control the spread of the disease.
“We’re already late, should already be on the marketespecially to buy updated vaccines, those that prevent omicron,” he emphasized.
What is seasonal influenza?
Influenza is a acute illness caused by a respiratory virus of the Orthomyxoviridae family, which is classified into three types: A, B and C. It is highly contagiouswith symptoms ranging from mild to severe, often being confused with the common cold.
seasonal flu occurs annually from fall to early spring, with January and February being the months with the highest peaks of the disease. For this reason, it is crucial to take precautions to prevent contagion and the subsequent symptoms.
How is it spread?
Influenza is transmitted mainly person to person through droplets produced when coughing, sneezing or talking and that travel through the air. These drops can reach the mouth or nose from nearby people or be inhaled into the lungs.
Fortunately, the virus It is destroyed upon contact with soap and sunlight, but can survive on undisinfected surfaces for two to three days.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of influenza They begin abruptly and may include:
Fever above 38ºCIntense cough (can last two weeks or more)HeadacheMuscle and/or joint painRunny noseIrritation in the throatNasal congestionChillsFatigue (tiredness)Feeling of a cut bodyIrritated eyesVomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
The discomfort can persist up to two weeks.
MO
2023-12-07 02:01:15
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