Ministry: Increase In Reports Of Influenza

January 19, 2020

There has been an increase in reports of flu, fever and respiratory symptoms in the community, the Ministry of Health said, noting that “in 2020 thus far, 5% of reported cases have required hospital admissions.”

A spokesperson said, “The Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit [ESU] at the Ministry of Health is informing the public of an increase in reports of influenza [flu] and fever and respiratory symptoms in the community, which is designated as a medium alert by the ESU

“Influenza can be serious. In 2020 thus far, 5% of reported cases have required hospital admissions. Each year deaths have been associated with influenza and influenza-like illnesses around the world, including in Bermuda.

“Some people are at higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu especially persons 65 years and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease, pregnant women and young children.

“To prevent the spread of influenza:

  • All persons over 6 months of age should be vaccinated against the flu every year. Contact your doctor or attend the Department of Health Clinic on Victoria Street, Tel: (441) 278-6460, to be vaccinated.
  • Stay home from work, school and public places if you have symptoms of the flu. These symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and tiredness.
  • Consult your doctor for advice, especially if symptoms are severe. If you think you have the flu, call your doctor’s office before you go.
  • Do not have close contact with people who are sick.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow. Throw tissues in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work and school, such as doorknobs telephones, and bathroom fixtures.

“For updates on the local influenza situation you may refer to the Bermuda Government website at https://www.gov.bm/flu.”

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Comments (6)

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  1. sage says:

    Wow, how timely, according to a doctor I spoke to the flu has been picking up since october when a lot of people travel. I had it from Christmas eve right through New years, the worst flu I have ever experienced in my life, I have never taken a flu shot and usually get over it in 2 days 10 days in I was of no use, weak and tired. I still have lingering effects including nerve pain. Has the Ministry heard of coronavirus or SARS that has countries contemplating banning travel from China? In 2019 5000 people died from the flu in the US compared to numbers around 450 in previous years. I wonder if the overuse of flu shots creates strains for which we have no immunity like the overuse of antibiotics cause superbugs ljke MRSA.

    • saud says:

      ” I wonder if the overuse of flu shots creates strains”

      A simple google search would provide a remedial explanation, hopefully one with small words for you to understand.

  2. Mostly South Shore Warwick…any time we have a little blo the lights go out we must have had about eight remedial fixes 30° and no electric blanket or heater….

  3. Ren says:

    If you are suffering from flu like symptoms, visit the BMSG Health Express Urgent Care on Reid Street. Its open 7 days and you don’t need an appointment. Call them 292-0022