District Medical Officer issues H1N1 advisory, flags risks for pregnant women
The District Medical Officer has warned the public about H1N1 spread and advised early treatment, hygiene and extra care for pregnant women, children and the seriously ill.
The District Medical Officer has issued a public advisory on H1N1, a respiratory infection caused by the influenza A virus that spreads quickly through the air.
High fever, chills, sore throat, cough, a running nose, body pain, headache and severe fatigue are the main symptoms of the illness.
According to the advisory, the infection travels when an infected person coughs or sneezes and the virus lingers in the air. It can also spread when someone touches objects used by a patient and then touches their own eyes or nose.
The disease usually settles within a few days. However, anyone who develops breathing difficulty or chest pain should go to the nearest hospital without delay.
Certain groups face a higher risk. Bedridden patients, people with serious illnesses, pregnant women and children under two years of age should consult a doctor if they show fever or other symptoms.
Where such high-risk individuals are at home, other family members who have symptoms must strictly avoid close contact with them, the officer said.
Pregnant women are more vulnerable because immunity tends to be lower during pregnancy. Fever can rapidly progress to serious lung conditions such as pneumonia and may lead to miscarriage or premature delivery, making extra care essential.
Those with symptoms have been advised to drink plenty of water and rest, and to avoid self-medication or taking antibiotics without a doctor's advice.
To limit transmission, people should cover their nose and mouth with a handkerchief while sneezing or coughing, wash hands frequently with soap or use a sanitiser, and avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Washing hands well after returning home from outside is also recommended.
People with symptoms should stay away from public places and avoid unnecessary hospital visits. In unavoidable situations and in crowded settings, they should wear a mask and maintain social distance.
The advisory urges the public to keep a safe distance from those with fever and cough, and to seek proper treatment immediately rather than resorting to self-medication.