In Russia, the number of cases of influenza is growing. At the end of February, about 4059 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza were reported. The right methods of prevention help not only prevent the flu, but also other acute respiratory infections of the upper respiratory tract.
How many people are infected?
In January 2019, 741 patients were admitted to the hospital with flu-like symptoms. This number may be increased by late registrations. Since the 40th week of 2018, 10 670 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza have been transferred to the register - 2483 (23%) people had to be hospitalized.
Most of them (9,093) are not subtypes of influenza A, 892 of which are subtypes of influenza A (H1N1). Influenza B viruses were responsible for 334 reported cases. Deaths have also been observed. Since the 40th calendar week of 2018, 27 deaths from an influenza virus infection have been reported, 23 with the detection of influenza A, one with the detection of influenza B and 2 without influenza.
A total of 36 outbreaks were recorded. 12 outbreaks were in hospitals, 12 in kindergartens, 3 in rehabilitation facilities, 2 outbreaks in schools, medical institutions.
Only 1 outbreak was in a nursing home, in a private home.
According to the influenza research group, the flu epidemic in Russia began in calendar 2 of 2019. Respiratory syncytial virus (RS virus) circulates in the age groups up to 34 years. A population reporting system recently reported an increase in respiratory diseases.
Who is the flu vaccine recommended for?
Influenza vaccination is recommended for anyone who wants to protect themselves according to the official current plan. Groups of patients who should be vaccinated:
- all people with an increased risk of underlying disease: chronic diseases of the lungs, heart and blood circulation, kidney diseases, neurological disorders, metabolic disorders;
- pregnant women and women who want to become pregnant during the flu season;
- children from the age of 6 months;
- newborns;
- patients from 50 years old,
- children or adolescents aged 7 to 18 years on long-term aspirin therapy;
- people with HIV infection or other diseases that weaken the immune system;
- overweight people (imtā„40).
The seasonal flu vaccine is made from killed viruses or its components that do not cause the disease itself. Since the strains more or less differ each year due to constant mutations, the vaccine must be updated annually. The best time to get the flu shot is late October.
After 2 weeks, the vaccine begins to act. But even patients who get sick despite getting the flu vaccine benefit from preventative treatment. Compared to those not vaccinated, they have a significantly reduced risk of complications or death.
An important protective measure against infection is the prevention of contact with pathogens. This includes both the distance to potentially sick people (meetings in the cold season) and compliance with general hygiene rules.
Influenza viruses can spread through the air and adhere to objects.
General hygiene rules include:
- avoid shaking hands, coughing;
- avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth;
Thorough hand washing after personal contact or the use of sanitary equipment is an important condition for the hygiene of medical staff. Before eating, as well as contact with objects or materials that may be contaminated with secretions from patients, wash your hands.
It is recommended to periodically ventilate the premises (3-4 times a day for 10 minutes) to reduce the number of viruses in the air. Fever patients should stay at home to prevent the further spread of viruses.
Everyone can contribute to the overall strengthening of their own immune systems. A balanced diet, plenty of physical exercises in the fresh air, adequate sleep and abstinence from alcohol and nicotine are the basis of prevention. Contrast showers and sauna visits can help strengthen your body's resistance to infections.
