New Wave of Influenza Infections Expected as Virus Sincicial Peaks
The Ministry of Health (Minsal) has projected a new wave of infections in the coming weeks, following the peak of the virus sincicial. However, this time the infections will be caused by the influenza virus. Unlike the common cold, influenza is an acute respiratory disease that manifests with more intense and severe symptoms. Complications are particularly common in the elderly, chronic patients, lactating children, and pregnant women.
According to ministerial records, only 6 million people have been vaccinated, which corresponds to 36% of pregnant women, 58% of older adults, 76% of chronic patients, and 65% of children aged 6 months to 5 years. The ideal coverage for each of these groups is 85%, according to Dr. Jamie Rodriguez, Head of Child Infectious Diseases at Clínica Alemana and President of CAVEI (Advisory Committee for Vaccines and Immunization Strategies).
Low adherence to the vaccination program may be due to people feeling overwhelmed by the pandemic and COVID-19 vaccines. However, it is crucial to understand the benefits of vaccination programs, explains the specialist.
The consequences of the influenza virus can be severe, leading to serious conditions and even death. This can also result in an increased demand for emergency services. Adhering to the winter campaign and getting vaccinated against influenza can prevent these consequences, emphasizes the head of infant infectious diseases at Clínica Alemana.
While the vaccine does not protect against contagion, it does prevent the development of serious illness. Its protection starts from the second week of inoculation. Therefore, time is of the essence, as people who are vaccinated today will only be immunized in mid-July, clarifies the specialist.
In the case of mild symptoms, telemedicine care is as effective as face-to-face care. It offers benefits such as accessing more expeditious care without delay and avoiding waiting rooms where the risk of contagion with other viruses is higher. Additionally, segregating patients allows for quicker care of the most seriously ill individuals, explains Dr. Daniela Silva, head of Emergency Services at Clínica Alemana.
Telemedicine care is recommended for mild symptoms such as fever of less than two days, nasal congestion, dry cough, and diarrhea, among others. It provides care from the comfort of home, avoids transfers, and is an excellent option for acute but non-serious symptoms.
The most prevalent symptoms of influenza include sudden high fever, lasting two to three days and sometimes up to a week. Extreme tiredness or weakness, headache, pain when swallowing and coughing, muscle and joint pain, and light discomfort are also common. Stomach problems and otitis may appear, especially in children.
Influenza can worsen the symptoms of other existing illnesses such as heart failure, diabetes, pneumonia, and dehydration. Difficulty breathing is one of the most serious complications, particularly in children. Infants under three months may experience apnea, while young infants may present only with high fever. Symptoms usually resolve within a few days, but cough and listlessness may persist for more than two weeks.
It is crucial to stay informed about influenza and take necessary precautions to protect oneself and others. Getting vaccinated and seeking appropriate medical care, including telemedicine, can help prevent serious illness and complications.
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How can getting vaccinated against influenza help prevent serious illnesses and the strain on emergency services, as mentioned by the head of infant infectious diseases at Clínica Alemana
The Ministry of Health (Minsal) anticipates a rise in influenza infections in the coming weeks following the peak of the respiratory syncytial virus. Unlike the common cold, influenza is a more severe respiratory disease with intense symptoms. Elderly individuals, chronic patients, lactating children, and pregnant women are particularly at risk for complications.
According to records from the Ministry, only 6 million people have been vaccinated, which falls below the recommended coverage rates. The ideal coverage is 85% for pregnant women, 58% for older adults, 76% for chronic patients, and 65% for children aged 6 months to 5 years. Dr. Jamie Rodriguez, Head of Child Infectious Diseases at Clínica Alemana and President of CAVEI, emphasizes the importance of understanding the benefits of vaccination programs, despite people feeling overwhelmed by the ongoing pandemic and COVID-19 vaccines.
Influenza can have severe consequences, leading to serious illnesses and even death. This can also put a strain on emergency services. Adhering to the winter campaign and getting vaccinated against influenza can help prevent these consequences, according to the head of infant infectious diseases at Clínica Alemana.
While the influenza vaccine does not prevent contagion, it can significantly reduce the risk of developing a severe illness. Its protection starts from the beginning of the vaccination.
Vaccination is crucial in combating the influenza wave, as it not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the virus from spreading further. Recognizing the symptoms early on is equally important, allowing for prompt medical attention and containment. Stay informed, get vaccinated, and be vigilant against influenza!