By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Ministry of Health has issued a stern warning to the public, signaling a state of high alert as the country braces itself for the onset of the influenza season.
This caution comes in the wake of escalating cases reported in the neighbouring Republic of South Africa, which has raised concerns about the potential spread of the flu virus within Eswatini’s borders.
The Minister of Health, Mduduzi Matsebula, has emphasized the critical need for heightened vigilance, particularly during the winter season, which traditionally heightens the risk of contracting influenza.
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Matsebula shared such in a statement issued by the Ministry.
According to reports from the Department of Health and the National Institute of Communicable Diseases in South Africa, the 2024 influenza season has commenced.
The latest data, as of 9 May 2024, indicates that the predominant sub-type and lineage detected in South Africa is influenza A(H1N1) pdm09, followed by influenza B/Victoria and influenza A(H3N2).
While no confirmed cases of influenza A(H1N1) have been reported in Eswatini, the Ministry of Health remains vigilant, closely monitoring all influenza-like illnesses.
The Ministry in the statement asserted that Eswatini’s preparedness against influenza is supported by the existence of four influenza sentinel sites strategically located across the country, with one in each region.
These sentinel sites are housed within regional hospitals, and they diligently track and report all influenza-like illnesses to the Public Health Management Core Team on a weekly basis via the Immediate Disease Notification System.
To date, the Ministry has shared that reported cases from these sentinel sites have not surpassed the established weekly threshold for influenza-like illnesses.
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In fact, evidence suggests a one percent decrease in such illnesses between the 4th week of April and the 1st week of May 2024.
The statement further highlighted the importance of strong measures to mitigate the risk of spreading influenza.
EmaSwati are urged to adhere to recommended protocols, including avoiding close contact with sick individuals, practicing proper hygiene such as frequent hand washing and sanitizing, and covering coughs and sneezes appropriately.
Wearing masks in public spaces, particularly when experiencing flu-like symptoms or using public transport, is strongly advised.
In addition to the influenza threat, the public has been reminded of the persistent presence of Covid-19 within the community.
The Ministry of Health has stated that despite efforts to control the spread, reported cases have ranged between 1-15 per week over the past three months.
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The Ministry also expressed the necessity of continued adherence to Covid-19 protocols, including vaccination.
Those who have received the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine are urged to complete the vaccination schedule by obtaining the second dose after the recommended waiting period of 28 days.
Minister Mduduzi Matsebula has emphasized the importance of swift action in the face of influenza-like symptoms, urging individuals to promptly seek medical attention at the nearest health facility.
Early detection and treatment not only ensure individual well-being but also play a crucial role in preventing the transmission of influenza to others within the community.
