BY BANELE MAGONGO
MBABANE – A Health Promotion Officer from the Ministry of Health, has appealed Eswatini to seek medical assistance from nearest health facility if they exhibit any symptoms of influenza.
Speaking yesterday (Tuesday, June 11, 2024) on Eswatini TV’s Golden Hour, Sidumo Lukhele emphasized that COVID-19 remains a threat, and some cases of influenza could be related to the pandemic or other types of influenza.
Lukhele attributed the recent rise in influenza-like symptoms to the recent drop in temperatures, stressing the importance of seeking medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
It is stated that it is crucial for those experiencing influenza-like symptoms to seek medical attention without delay to ensure their own safety and the well-being of those in their proximity. He advocated for wearing masks, avoiding handshakes, and maintaining social distancing, as these measures proved effective in mitigating the spread of COVID-19. Lukhele further urged individuals to avoid crowded spaces, reiterating the importance of these preventative steps in keeping influenza at bay.
He acknowledged the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine in minimizing the spread of the disease, contrasting its success with the persistent stigma surrounding the vaccine. He emphasized that the vaccine’s effectiveness was evident in the dramatic decline in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations following its introduction, noting that most COVID-19 cases discovered after vaccination were detected through routine check-ups. Lukhele reiterated the crucial role that vaccination plays in protecting public health.
According to Lukhele, the influenza symptoms that individuals are currently experiencing include shortness of breath, headache, joint pains, loss of appetite, and sore throat. These symptoms can cause weakness, lethargy, and respiratory complications, leading to an overall feeling of being unwell. Lukhele cautioned the public to be vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms.
