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PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – The Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) urges people to adopt good personal hygiene in order to reduce the risk of transmitting influenza and other viruses. 39 other respiratory viruses, especially when the region is preparing to organize carnivals and other festivals.
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory disease caused primarily by two types of viruses: influenza A and influenza B.
"The Influenza A (H1N1) virus caused a pandemic in 2009. Although often referred to as" swine flu ", this name is misleading because it is not spread through contact with pigs or animal products. pork, "he added. The A (H1N1) virus continues to circulate around the world, including in the Caribbean.
"In general, the influenza season in the region is between September and March, as the number of people infected with the virus increases."
CARPHA said the flu was characterized by the sudden onset of a high fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, a severe discomfort (feeling sick), a sore throat and a runny nose.
"Most people recover from these symptoms in a week without the need for medical care, but the flu can cause serious illness or death in high-risk people," the office warned.
Dr. C. James Hospedales, executive director of CARPHA, said the main form of influenza transmission is through interpersonal contact.
He said that major social events such as carnival, festivals and concerts can create serious public health problems, as people are often crammed together, sharing their personal space and common spaces.
"Given the high influenza activity in the northern hemisphere and the high season of travel to the Caribbean, it is important that people take the necessary steps now to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu."
CARPHA said she urged people to take proactive measures to reduce the risk of transmitting influenza and other respiratory viruses.
He said that good hygiene measures that people can take include covering their mouths with a tissue or handkerchief, or using their elbows to sneeze or cough; safely discard paper tissues, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after coughing and sneezing and before and after meal preparation, food consumption and the following. toilet use
"Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the disease. Safe and effective vaccines have been available and used for more than 60 years. Vaccination is particularly important for health workers and people at high risk for serious complications of the flu, such as very young pregnant women, pregnant women, the elderly and people with chronic diseases, as well as for the elderly. people living with or caring for high-risk people, "said CARPHA.
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