With cases on the rise in MS, find out which basic precautions increase protection against flu viruses

With the seasonal increase in the number of cases of infections due to respiratory syndromes in Mato Grosso do Sul, specialist reinforces that basic care increases protection against viruses, including Sars-CoV-2 (covid-19), influenza (flu) , respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinovirus. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water may seem like a simple measure, but it is highly effective in preventing disease.

The pediatrician at HRMS (Hospital Regional de Mato Grosso do Sul), Haroldo Luiz Lins e Silva, explains that these simple measures, in addition to immunization, make a difference amid the scenario of increasing cases of diseases typical of this time of year. “Avoiding close contact with people who are already infected and washing your hands frequently are fundamental attitudes,” said the doctor.

The use of alcohol gel is also recommended as an option for hand hygiene, but the doctor warns that it is important that they are not dirty or have secretions. “Alcohol gel can be an ally in individual protection against the flu, but it is necessary to ensure adequate hand cleaning,” he said.

The virus is transmitted from person to person through respiratory secretions, mainly through coughing or sneezing. “The virus can also survive for up to 48 hours in the environment, especially on surfaces frequently touched by several people, such as handrails, light switches, door handles, supermarket trolleys, among others”, warned the technical manager of Influenza and Respiratory Diseases from SES (State Department of Health), Lívia Maziero.

Other simple actions, such as avoiding touching your eyes, mouth and nose after contact with these surfaces, in addition to avoiding sharing personal objects, avoiding staying in unventilated environments and with crowds of people, also complement care.

SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) occurs from cases of flu-like syndromes that evolve with signs of severity leading to hospitalization. Cases can be caused by respiratory viruses, among which influenza types A and B predominate, or by bacteria, fungi and other agents.

Symptoms, in general, are high fever, chills, cough, headache and sore throat, tiredness and muscle pain. Anyone who presents respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath, should seek a healthcare facility immediately, as early treatment – within 48 hours – with specific antiviral medications helps prevent progression to serious forms of the disease.

“These measures not only protect others, but also help contain the spread of the virus,” Lívia added.

Vaccination

The SES Immunization Coordinator, Ana Paula Goldfinger, explains that the objective of the 26th National Influenza Vaccination Campaign is to reduce complications, hospitalizations and even mortality resulting from influenza virus infections in the population.

Vaccination also contributes to reducing viral circulation in the population, especially protecting individuals who have risk factors or conditions. The participation of priority groups is still low in the State.

The campaign, which had its target audience expanded on Thursday (2), aims to increase the number of people immunized and reduce the circulation of viruses. “The increase in immunized people contributes to less circulation of viruses and prevents overload on health services. We need to increase vaccination coverage regardless of groups. We are seeing an increase in hospitalized people and deaths due to SARS and influenza, diseases caused by respiratory viruses”, stated Goldfinger.

(Source: MS Todo Dia with press office/Photo: Fernando Frazão/Agência Brasil)