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Maldivian succumbs to influenza at IGMH

Shahudha Mohamed
02 December 2019, MVT 19:44
Patients waiting for consultation in the special clinic established during an influenza outbreak in 2017. PHOTO: HUSSAIN WAHEED/ MIHAARU
Shahudha Mohamed
02 December 2019, MVT 19:44

A local died of influenza on Sunday night while undergoing treatment at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH).

According to local media Mihaaru, the individual that passed away was identified as 51-year-old Mohamed Rafeeu from Muli, Meemu Atoll.

Health Protection Agency (HPA)'s statistics show that 130 out of 261 suspected cases tested positive for influenza in the month of November alone. This number was at 38 in October.

Moreover, HPA revealed that of the flu cases currently on the rise, most are caused by the influenza type A virus, which is a highly contagious infection that attacks the respiratory system.

Influenza type A infections pose additional dangers as it is known to cause outbreaks and increase the risk of other diseases.

Symptoms of type A influenza include fever, cold, runny or stuffy nose, coughing, sneezing, headache, sore throat, body aches, chills and fatigue.

People who are at high risk for flu complications include senior citizens and those with weak or recovering immune systems.

Regarding the spreading of influenza in Maldives, HPA advised the public to take safety measures for prevention.

The best way to prevent the flu is through annual vaccinations. Medical experts state that each flu shot protects against three to four different influenza viruses within the year’s flu season.

Regularly washing hands, avoiding large crowds, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and staying home in case of fever are also ways to prevent the spread of the disease.

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