The Vila Central Hospital has reported an increase in people with respiratory symptoms or influenza-like illness presenting to the Emergency Department that is not due to COVID-19. Test results available to the Ministry of Health today confirm that this is due to Influenza Virus Type A.
Similar surges in the number of people with respiratory or influenza-like illness usually occur in Vanuatu in the cold dry season from May to October. The number of people with symptoms in 2022 has not yet exceeded the threshold for this time of year to declare this as an "outbreak". The Ministry of Health will provide any updates if the situation changes. Major increases in seasonal influenza cases have already been reported in the region this year, including in Australia and New Zealand.
People with respiratory symptoms presenting to VCH have been testing negative to COVID-19 therefore there is no indication of a “second wave” of COVID-19. Omicron is currently the dominant variant globally and the only variant that has been detected in Vanuatu so far.
Signs and symptoms
Influenza is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise (feeling unwell), sore throat and a runny nose. The cough can be severe and can last 2 or more weeks. Most people recover from fever and other symptoms within a week without requiring medical attention.
But severe illness or death can result, especially in people at high risk. These include pregnant women, children under 59 months, the elderly, individuals with underlying medical conditions (such as chronic cardiac, pulmonary, renal, metabolic, neurodevelopmental, liver or hematologic diseases) and immunosuppressed individuals. Health care workers are at high risk of acquiring influenza due to increased exposure to patients.
Actions for the public
Those with respiratory or flu-like symptoms are advised to isolate themselves from others to avoid spreading the disease and to come forward for testing as symptoms can be similar to COVID-19. Keep sick children away from school and other activities.
All those who are sick should stay home, drink plenty of fluids, eat nutritious food and take plenty of rest. Wait at least 24 hours after a fever ends before going into public spaces.
Seek medical care if symptoms persist over a week and/or if the condition worsens, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain or worsening of chronic medical conditions. Those with asthma or at high risk such as the elderly or those with underlying conditions should seek medical care.
While there is no specific treatment for influenza illness, the symptoms (like fever) can be treated by taking the recommended dose of paracetamol to relieve fever and pains.
Prevention
Therefore, the Ministry of Health continues to advise people that those who are sick stay home to avoid infecting others. Other public health and social measures put in place for COVID-19 can also prevent other respiratory illnesses. These include: frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth, covering coughs and sneezes, physical distancing, meeting in well ventilated areas, and avoiding crowds.
Immunization Is the most effective measure against influenza. People who are at high risk including those with underlying medical condition and those who are 55 years old and above are encouraged to receive an influenza vaccine. While the Ministry of Health is not conducting an influenza vaccination program, these may be accessed through private clinics and pharmacies for a fee.