Even though there is no vaccine in South Africa for RSV and HMPV, there are things you can do to avoid getting respiratory illnesses, such as:
• Cleaning your hands regularly and thoroughly, with either soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth without cleaning your hands first
• Wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
• Improving ventilation where possible( such as opening a window for air flow)
• Having a strong immune system can also help fend off infections. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep
• When you are sick, avoid making others sick by staying at home
• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing
Who’ s at risk? Children under 5, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems. While anyone can catch HMPV and RSV, infants, older adults and those with health conditions like immunosuppression, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease( COPD) and asthma are at higher risk for severe illness.
Flu symptoms can make you feel awful, they include:
• A sudden fever, generally higher than 38 ° C
• A headache
• Body aches and pains
• Chills and sweats
• Feeling very tired and weak
• A dry, hacking cough
• A stuffy or runny nose with lots of discharge
• A very sore throat.
‘ Even if the flu vaccine is not 100 % effective, it will reduce your risk of getting flu and, if you do get it, it will be a great deal milder,’ says Callakoppen.
‘ We’ d like to encourage South Africans to use the Hub to learn more about these viruses, how to avoid contracting them, the treatment and why we recommend flu vaccination.’
From prevention and symptoms to treatment and support, you’ ll find all you need to take control of your respiratory wellbeing on the Respiratory Illness Hub www. bonitas. co. za / Respiratory-Hub
Remember: Your GP or clinic is your first healthcare port of call.
The treatment
• Most cases are mild and go away within 2-5 days
• If symptoms last more than two weeks or become severe, seek medical advice
• While some people may be hospitalised with bronchitis or pneumonia with RSV, most people infected with HMPV have mild upper respiratory infections
Let’ s talk flu and the vaccine. Flu, like other respiratory illnesses can lead to various complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections and worsening of chronic medical conditions like asthma or heart disease. Complications are more common in high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, people over 65, those with chronic diseases or comorbidities, pregnant women, if your BMI is over 40 and if you are immunocompromised.
Flu viruses also mutate very quickly but you can protect yourself by having an annual flu vaccination.