Cases of influenza (cold and flu) are rising, announced the Ministry of Health and Human Services yesterday.
“The Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS) would like to inform the public that a steep increase in the flu has been observed at the Belau National Hospital. Laboratory testing has confirmed influenza B virus in at least 28 patients since May 28. So far, children and adolescents aged 15 years and below account for the majority of cases,” reports MHHS.
The public is advised to take precautionary measures to protect their families. To protect oneself and family members, MHHS recommended getting flu shots, washing hands often, and avoiding sick people, including wearing masks around others.
Common symptoms of the flu (influenza) include fever, feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness), and vomiting & Diarrhea (common in children).
MHHS recommends seeking medical attention if a person experiences difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, pain/pressure in the chest or abdomen, or severe/persistent vomiting.