The Ministry of Health (MOH) has informed the general public of the wave of viral influenza illness that is circulating like wildfire in the populace.
According to the statement released on Friday, April 12, 2023, this viral disease is characterized by a runny nose, headache, intermittent fever, dry cough, and general body weakness, and these may persist for a couple of days before complete reduction.
Dr. Henry Mwebesa, the Director General of Health Services at MOH revealed that the commonly affected age groups include children under 5 years old, school-going children, and the elderly who are 60 years and older.
He added that about 2 percent of individuals who get viral influenza may get severe respiratory disease, but there is no record of any consistent increase in hospitalization due to influenza.
In the statement, the ministry of health appeals to all symptomatic individuals to seek clinical care from the nearest health facility.
The clinical care, according to the ministry of health, emphatically includes testing for COVID-19 and checking for malaria, among others.
“The public is encouraged to practice good hand hygiene and avoid public gatherings if you have any of the above mentioned symptoms. If you must go out and are symptomatic, please wear a face mask at all times and avoid hugging or shaking hands,” the statement read.
The Ministry of Health also dismissed the misleading information that has been in the media about the return of COVID-19.
“The ministry of health reiterates that there is no evidence of any COVID-19 resurgence in the country. However, individuals who are due for their COVID-19 booster dose are encouraged to do so,” the statement read.
Dr. Mwebesa said that the influenza trend is consistent with the seasonal influenza pattern that has two annual peaks that coincide with the rainy seasons, stating that these happen in two seasons with two peaks.
He added that the first season is February to June, peaking in March, while the second season is August to November, peaking in September.
According to Dr. Henry, the peaks are attributed to the virus surviving because of humidity, precipitation, and high populations’ interactions in urban areas.