The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is urging Caribbean citizens to practice good personal hygiene to reduce the risk of transmission of influenza and other respiratory viruses.
The Flu is characterized by a sudden onset of high fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise (feeling unwell), sore throat and runny nose.
Most people CARPHA says recover from symptoms within a week without requiring medical attention but influenza can cause severe illness or death in people at high risk.
Dr C. James Hospedales, Executive Director of CARPHA, explained that the primary form of influenza transmission is through interpersonal contact.
He added that large social events like carnival, festivals and concerts can create serious public health challenges because persons are often crowded together, sharing personal space and common areas.
Given elevated flu activity in the United States, combined with the high travel season to the Caribbean, Hospedales said it’s important that people take the necessary steps now, to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu.
CARPHA urges persons to proactively take the appropriate hygienic measures to reduce the risk of transmission of the flu and other respiratory viruses.
