Don’t Let Flu Ruin Your Holiday Gathering
- meadowsidehealth
- Dec 26, 2024
- 2 min read
Flu is more than a common cold. It is caused by influenza viruses. Influenza infection is often characterized by a sudden onset of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise, sore throat and runny nose. The cough can be severe and can last for 2 or more weeks.
Most cases of influenza are self- limiting. However, it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, sinus/ ear infections, myocarditis, encephalitis, sepsis, or even death. People with asthma may experience asthma attacks.
The flu spreads easily, with rapid transmission especially in crowded areas. The incubation period ranges from 1 to 4 days. Infected persons may be contagious from 1 day before the onset of symptoms until 5 to 7 days after the onset of symptoms.
When an infected person coughs or sneezes, droplets containing viruses are dispersed into the air and can spread up to 1metre, and infect people in proximity who breathe these droplets in. The virus can live on hands and hard surfaces for 24 hours.
In Singapore, influenza occurs all year round. Generally, the Flu season peaks from December to February, and May to July. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the disease. If you become infected with Flu, the vaccination reduces the severity and duration of the illness.
Who is at risk of Flu and its complications?
• Children younger than 5 years of age
• Pregnant women are up to 26x increased risk of hospitalization due to the Flu. One of the most common obstetric complications is pre-term delivery
• 50% to 70% of seasonal related hospitalizations occur in people 65 years and older
• People with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, COPD, cardiovascular diseases are at higher risks of complications from Flu and hospitalizations
• Adult and children with immunosuppression
• Seasonal Flu is among the most prevalent infectious diseases in travelers
How to reduce the risk of getting Flu and its complications?
1) Seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended to protect against influenza, especially for the high risks group. People living with and caring for high-risk individuals should also be vaccinated against influenza.
2) Get your Flu jab at least 2 weeks before your travel or gathering. Immunity takes time to develop after the immunization.
3) Consider an outdoor gathering, or if it is indoors, keep the area well- ventilated. Use an air filter or air purifiers if you have one.
4) Wash your hands frequently to help prevent the spread of germs. Alternatively use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to kill the germs.
5) Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread easily this way.
6) Avoid sharing of food/ drinks or eating utensils
7) Wipe down hard surfaces frequently with disinfectant or alcohol wipes as germs can stay on these hard surfaces for 24 hours.
8) If you have symptoms, mask up. Excuse yourself from the gathering to avoid putting others at risk. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing, bin used tissues as quickly as possible and wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
Finally, see a doctor if you are unwell. We wish you a wonderful time of holiday and gatherings with your loved ones.
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