Recent deaths in the United States and Canada due to the H1N1 flu has once again raised concern about the swine flu virus. South Africa has been unscathed by the H1N1 flu outbreak and the local health authorities have assured South Africans that the country is prepared for any spread of swine flu among the population. However the recent deaths and new infections in first world countries indicates that H1N1 flu is spreading although it had drastically slowed in recent weeks. With travellers from Asia and Africa arriving in South Africa daily, countries with a less vigilant national health body may not be detecting or reporting cases of H1N1 flu among their citizens.
H1N1 Flu & Chronic Diseases
The main concern relating to deaths due to H1N1 flu should focus around those suffering with chronic conditions, immunocompromised and the elderly. Health authorities in the United States indicated that two of the recent deaths occurred in cases where there were underlying chronic cases. One victim suffered with a lung disorder while the other had known cardiac complications prior to contracting the H1N1 flu. Canadian health authorities also confirmed that the most recent Canadian casualty was woman with an unstated, pre-existing health condition.
H1N1 Flu & HIV/AIDS
In South Africa, the main concern revolves around the high HIV infection rate. With 5.5 million HIV/AIDS sufferers, as indicated by the Department of Health, H1N1 flu could have a severe impact should it spread in South Africa. An ageing population suffering with a host of chronic conditions, the elderly in South Africa are also at risk should they contract H1N1 flu. However the biggest cause for concern is the tendency not to seek medical attention in cases of the ‘common cold’ or ‘flu’.
H1N1 & Winter Flu Season
Many of us opt to self medicate ourselves and chalk down our symptoms to a ‘3 day flu’. With the upcoming flu season in South Africa, usually between May and August, South Africans should be warned that they should seek professional medical attention if they are suffering with the flu. If you are HIV positive, suffering with a severe chronic condition or prone to repeated infections, it is essential that you consult with your doctor should you exhibit any signs or symptoms of the flu. Over the counter products and purchasing ‘cold and flu’ medicines from your pharmacy can be dangerous without the proper medical supervision.
Global air travel means that outbreaks such as the H1N1 flu can quickly spread to any region of the world. The recent international sporting events in South Africa has seen thousands of more tourists visiting our shores above and beyond the regular visitors. Arriving from a host of countries, interacting with thousands of travellers at airports when in transit means that H1N1 flu can never be contained in one region without proper monitoring and quarantine. South Africans should be advised to seek medical attention if they are exhibiting any cold or flu symptoms especially if they have been exposed to persons who have been travelling abroad recently.
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