Question

Discuss prevention among those groups who are at risk for development of influenza symptoms.

Answer 1

Preventive measures for the group, who are in risk for developing Influenza:

Influenza is an acute contagious disease of the upper airways and lungs, caused by a virus, which rapidly spreads around the world in seasonal epidemics. It is also called as flu . It is characterised by fever, muscle aches, chills, running or congested nose, cough etc.

Even though it is a common viral infection , it may be fatal in high risk groups such as pregnant women, small children ( below 5 year, patient with week immune system and elderly( above 65 years).

Preventive measures:

* Vaccination: One of the major preventive measure is the Vaccination to  prevent the flu. Flu vaccines are available in most of the healthcare settings. All risk groups can be taken the vaccine against influenza.

October or November is the best time to get a flu shot.

* Hand hygiene: it is one of the main preventive measure to observe against influenza spreading. Clean the hands frequently with soap and water or with a hand sanitizer.

* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing and coughing to prevent the droplets from spreading.

* Be at home and avoid close contact , when a person is sick: If person gets a respiratory infection, avoid going to schools, work places and close contacts . Keeping distance from others help to prevent the spread of disease to others.

* Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth with contaminated hands.

* Healthy habits, to boost the immune system and nutritional status of the high risk groups , such as healthy diet, adequate fluid intake, adequate rest and sleep, regular physical activity etc.

* Day care centers and schools should have adequate facility;

- for the proper supply of tissues, hand sanitizers, soap and water

- to clean the surfaces and objects, which are frequently touched by children and Staff.

- facility for isolation for the students and staff, who have flu symptoms.

- Flu vaccination should be available at schools

* Work places have to provide:

- flu vaccination

-clean the frequently touched surfaces , door knobs, keyboards, phones

- clean environment and rooms with adequate supply of hand sanitizers, soap and water, tissues etc.

* Houses, where the elderly and pregnant woman and young children resides, should be cleaned frequently. Use disinfectant while cleaning for a germ free environment, especially kitchen and bathroom. Light switches, door knobs, remote control, kitchen counters should be cleaned properly and frequently.

* Individuals, who have a weekend immune system or chronic disorder , should use face masks, while going outside. Use Alcohol based hand rubs inbetween.