Doctors advise precautions
Mudassir Kuloo
Srinagar, Aug 27: With cases of H1N1 and seasonal influenza being reported from various parts of the country, doctors in Kashmir have advised people to take precautionary measures as a number of residents are reporting cough, running nose, fever and diarrhoea.
Doctors said most seasonal influenza infections are mild and self-limiting, but stressed the need for early recognition of warning signs and timely medical consultation, particularly among vulnerable groups.
“People should not panic, but they should not ignore persistent respiratory symptoms either. Cough, sore throat, running or blocked nose, body ache, headache, fatigue and fever can occur with influenza and other respiratory infections,” said Dr Shafi Ahmad, physician.
He advised people with respiratory symptoms to wear a well-fitting mask, maintain hand hygiene and avoid unnecessary contact with elderly people, children and those with underlying health conditions.
He also cautioned against self-medication, particularly the unnecessary use of antibiotics. “Influenza is caused by a virus, and antibiotics do not work against viral infections. People should not start medicines such as azithromycin, amoxicillin-clavulanate or cefixime without medical advice,” he said.
He said diarrhoea and vomiting can also accompany some viral infections and that maintaining adequate fluid intake is important to prevent dehydration.
Dr Bashir Ahmad, chest specialist, said people should pay particular attention to breathing-related symptoms.
“Most flu-like illnesses settle with supportive care, but difficulty in breathing, chest pain, persistent vomiting, confusion, unusual drowsiness or rapid deterioration should not be ignored. Such symptoms require prompt medical assessment,” Dr Bashir said.
He said people experiencing cough, fever or other respiratory symptoms should avoid crowded places where possible and follow cough etiquette. “Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, clean your hands frequently and avoid visiting vulnerable patients when you are acutely unwell,” he said.
Doctors said people should seek urgent medical care if they develop shortness of breath, fast or laboured breathing, chest pain or persistent pressure, bluish lips or fingers, coughing blood, confusion, seizures, persistent vomiting or an inability to take fluids.
The advisory issued by the SMVDIME/Institutional Infection Prevention and Control Programme, Kakryal, Katra, also recommends that patients and attendants follow infection-control measures in healthcare facilities. It calls for symptomatic persons to wear masks before entering hospitals and inform healthcare staff about their symptoms.
Doctors said seasonal influenza, including Influenza / H1N1, can increase during monsoon and winter months. They advised people at higher risk of complications, as well as healthcare workers, to consider annual seasonal influenza vaccination in accordance with public-health guidance.
