Health ministry: influenza on the rise
Active influenza cases in Bermuda are “at a high alert”, the Ministry of Health has announced.
A ministry spokeswoman said influenza cases were “significantly above normal levels for this time of year”.
She added that reports of Covid-19, strep throat, the common cold, seasonal coronavirus and RSV were increasing.
In North America, the flu season is considered to run from October through May, with February usually standing out as the peak month.
The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit is monitoring these illnesses and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, urged people experiencing flu-like symptoms – particularly pregnant women, those with asthma, diabetes or heart disease, adults aged 65 or older and young children – to seek medical advice.
Flu-like symptoms include a fever, sore throat, coughing and tiredness.
Getting vaccinated against influenza each season (for those aged six months and older).
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home from work, school or public places if experiencing flu-like symptoms.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, upper sleeve or elbow and throw used tissues in the trash.
Wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, telephones and bathroom fixtures at home, school and work.
Consider wearing a mask.
Practise other healthy habits such as being physically active, getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy food, drinking lots of fluids and healthily managing stress.
• People can contact their physician’s office or the Hamilton Health Centre on Victoria Street at 278-6460 to get vaccinated against influenza. Visitgov.bm/health-information for updates on conditions reported to ESU
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