3,274 Acute Respiratory Infections Recorded in 1 Week

Between the flu and COVID-19, health professionals are calling for vigilance following the report of 3,274 cases of acute respiratory infections from January 13 to January 19, 2025. This figure represents a decrease from the previous week’s total of 3,713 cases. However, it is important to note that these numbers do not include private sector data or unreported cases, suggesting that the true situation may be more concerning.

During the specified week, health centers have conveyed that the drop in reported cases may not accurately reflect the complete picture.

Health professionals are warning against self-medication and emphasizing the need for preventive measures.

Dr. Aswamed Dinassing, the interim director-general of health services, stresses the risks of complications associated with these infections, particularly for vulnerable individuals with preexisting conditions.

He noted, “An acute respiratory infection can escalate into severe, sometimes fatal issues.”

Dr. Dinassing elaborated on the symptoms associated with the circulating viral infections, mentioning that they can cause throat dryness and irritation.

“When a person coughs, it can injure the trachea and lead to bleeding,” he explained, though he reassures that such outcomes are generally considered “normal” and typically resolve with appropriate treatment.

Hundreds of similar cases have been documented.

Pharmacists have observed that medications for flu, which typically see high demand in winter, have been quickly depleted in recent weeks, necessitating restocking.

One anonymous pharmacist remarked, “Our supplies ran out rapidly,” expressing concern about a potential flu outbreak next winter, particularly as there are currently no tests available to differentiate between flu and COVID-19.

As the seasonal flu usually peaks during winter, health experts suggest that the current surge in acute respiratory infections is more closely linked to COVID-19 than to the flu.

Dr. Dinassing described the ongoing infections as a “kind of flu,” with various viruses displaying similar symptoms, including dry cough, runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and throat irritation.

These viruses include influenza, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.

Dr. Amit Mahadoo, a general practitioner, notes that these respiratory infections are spreading rapidly and urges the public to remain vigilant, as distinguishing between different viruses can be challenging.

He has also reported cases of acute bronchitis, stating, “This situation is unusual and reminiscent of what we experienced during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

While many current cases of COVID-19 are being reported, he observed that they appear to be less virulent than earlier variants, which caused severe, sometimes fatal, symptoms.

As a precaution, he recommended wearing masks in poorly ventilated spaces.

Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, a public health physician, added that some patients have required hospitalization due to complications, occurring in both public and private sectors.

He underscored the importance of basic hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, using tissues to cover the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wearing masks as supplementary preventive measures.

He warned that flu symptoms should not be downplayed and emphasized the necessity of consulting a physician for appropriate treatment.

Patients and healthcare professionals have also noted that current infections tend to last longer than a week, particularly among immunocompromised individuals or those with comorbidities.

Dr. Dinassing explained that patients generally begin to feel better after the incubation period ends.

Due to the current health situation, the interim director-general of health services strongly encourages the public to take precautions to avoid complications, with particular emphasis on those with medical histories.

As the health community continues to monitor the situation, adherence to preventive measures remains critical in limiting the spread of respiratory infections.

Source: Defi Media