The National Institute for Communicable Diseases( NICD) says it has seen a rise in respiratory illnesses, not just flu. Two other culprits include Respiratory Syncytial Virus( RSV) and Human Metapneumovirus( HMPV), suggesting an early start to the respiratory virus season, with these viruses circulating earlier than usual.
Respiratory infections can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly and those with chronic conditions. That’ s why Bonitas created the Respiratory Illness Hub: A go-to resource, open to everyone, talking about all things related to respiratory health.
‘ Last year we noted a significant increase in hospital admissions for respiratory conditions. These included flu, pneumonia, H1N1, RSV, HMPV and Covid-19’, says Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer.‘ As a result, we took the decision to be proactive and create an educational hub. The Respiratory Illness Hub, housed on our website, is a resource open to all South Africans, not just our members. It contains valuable information addressing all matters related to your respiratory health. Articles, infographics and videos guide you through everything from prevention and symptoms to treatment.’
He says the information is comprehensive and includes: How to avoid getting sick, differentiating between the different respiratory illnesses, possible symptoms and treatment.
‘ We are trying to prevent the spread of all respiratory illness and promote faster recovery, if someone is ill. A critical part of that process is education and awareness,’ says Callakoppen.‘ Knowledge is power and a strategic focus of ours is around prevention and early detection.’
Common respiratory illnesses which are not flu Both RSV and HMPV are being detected at increasing rates, potentially indicating a broader respiratory illness surge and are more common in young children and older adults. Symptoms are similar to the common cold: Coughing, wheezing, runny nose, sore throat, fever, fatigue, muscle pain, loss of taste or smell and breathing difficulties.
• They cause upper and lower respiratory tract infections
• HMPV symptoms usually last around 2-5 days but can vary, depending on how sick you get. The symptoms typically go away on their own
• Most children who get infected with HMPV are age 5 or younger. However, if infected during early childhood, it can lead to long-term respiratory issues, including asthma and impaired lung function
According to The World Health Organization( WHO), these spread like other common cold viruses, through infectious respiratory particles that circulate through the air. This means you can catch the virus when you are in contact with a sick person or sharing a closed space with them. You can also get infected by touching contaminated surfaces like doorknobs or handles and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
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Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 2 / 2025