As we are all being bombarded with the Coronavirus, we should take note that we are entering Health Awareness Month.
We are also approaching winter and that means the cold and flu season will soon be upon us. Many healthy individuals will contract “The Flu” or Coronavirus, or any of the other respiratory viruses causing similar symptoms, and they will recover quickly with symptomatic treatment and rest. The individuals who need to be concerned are the very young (less than 5 years old) or those over the age of 65 or people living with an underlying heart or lung condition, or immune compromised by cancer/chemotherapy, diabetes or HIV/TB. These are the members of our community that require extra attention to prevent them from developing complications from this illness.
The flu vaccine is recommended for those who do not want to be infected with influenza. Remember, these are specific viruses that you develop immunity to, this does not mean you will not get a common cold or flu like symptoms from other viruses. We hope and pray for a Covid-19, Coronavirus vaccine as soon as possible.
In the meantime, wash your hands! Skills we should all learn as toddlers… wash your hands after using the toilet, wash your hands before preparing or eating food. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. These basic habits that can help prevent the spread of infections.
By Dr Megan Broughton, megan@umhlangagp.net.