How to Prevent and Manage Influenza Abroad

Barbie Hsu, the Taiwanese actress best known for her role in Meteor Garden, has passed away at 48 due to pneumonia caused by influenza complications. Her sister, Dee Hsu, confirmed the news through her agent on Monday, February 3.

Reports indicate that Barbie contracted influenza-induced pneumonia while on a family trip to Japan, highlighting the serious risks associated with the flu, especially while traveling.

UNDERSTANDING INFLUENZA

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. The virus can also linger on surfaces, making it easy to contract through touch.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

There are three main types of influenza viruses:

  • Influenza A & B – Responsible for seasonal outbreaks and epidemics. Influenza A tends to cause more severe cases and complications.
  • Influenza C – Less common and typically results in milder symptoms.

While anyone can get the flu, certain groups are at higher risk of complications, including:

a. Young children under five years old
b. Elderly individuals
c. People with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Flu symptoms usually develop suddenly and can include:

  • High fever
  • Sore throat, runny or stuffy nose
  • Persistent cough
  • Muscle aches and fatigue
  • Headache and chills
  • Loss of appetite

    Image Credits: unsplash.com

  • In severe cases, influenza can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, or even meningitis.

PREVENTION

Before Your Trip
a. Get a flu vaccine. It is the most effective way to reduce your risk.
b. Strengthen your immune system with a balanced diet, vitamins, and sufficient rest.
c. Purchase travel insurance that covers hospital expenses in case of illness abroad.

While Traveling
a. Stay hydrated to support your immune system.
b. Prioritize rest and sleep to allow your body to recover.
c. Carry fever reducers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
d. Use steam therapy, such as sitting in a steamy bathroom or drinking warm tea, to relieve congestion.
e. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
f. Wear a mask in crowded areas like airports and public transportation.

Flu Treatment
If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Antiviral medications such as Tamiflu, Xofluza, and Relenza can help shorten the duration of the illness and prevent complications. In serious cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

IN A NUTSHELL

Traveling should be an enjoyable experience, not disrupted by illness. Taking preventive measures and knowing how to manage flu symptoms can help ensure a safe and healthy trip.

Take care of your health and travel with confidence.

Sources: 1,2,3, & 4

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The importance of getting your flu vaccine amid COVID-19

influenza vaccine

Truth be told, I used to think that the influenza vaccine is a travel vaccine. Dr Leong Choon Kit from Mission Medical Clinic identifies that the idea is a common misconception among people.

“So they may assume that since they are not travelling, the influenza (jab) is not needed,”  he said.

Decline in people getting the flu vaccine

Doctors revealed the drop in the number of people getting the flu jab. They attributed it to the circuit breaker period and a general reluctance to visit clinics during the pandemic.

Dr Leong shared that the Ministry of Health (MOH) had previously advised against going to clinics for elective vaccinations. In addition to that, many people are trying their best not to visit clinics at the moment.

“I think most people are distracted by the COVID-19 outbreak,” he said.

A dose of influenza vaccination is recommended per year
National Adult Immunisation Schedule

Image Credits: MOH

As advised under the MOH’s National Adult Immunisation Schedule, one dose of influenza vaccination is recommended annually or per flu season.

“This is for optimal protection against circulating influenza viruses, especially when the symptoms of influenza and COVID-19 are similar and not easily distinguishable,” said MOH.

Flu season usually highest at the end of the year

“There will be a challenge to distinguish flu symptoms from COVID symptoms as both diseases circulate simultaneously. Getting flu shots will hopefully reduce the background noise,” Farrer Park Hospital’s infectious diseases specialist Dr Lam Mun San said.

Dr Leong adds that it is more important for the population to be vaccinated against influenza now. Compared to the other years, there’s an even more urgent need this year.

Getting a flu vaccination may help reduce the strain on healthcare facilities
Hospital ward

Image Credits: The Straits Times

Dr Barnaby Young from the National Centre for Infectious Diseases’ (NCID) advises us to follow MOH’s advice on vaccinations.

“Vaccinations are safe and effective at preventing influenza infections, they can reduce the strain on clinics and hospitals during flu season, and will protect vulnerable people in the community.”

NCID’s clinical director Dr Shawn Vasoo also explained from a public health and resource perspective. Minimizing influenza rates or preventing it may put less strain on testing resources and better use of hospitalisations or isolation beds for patients who might need it more.

Dr Vasoo also shared that with the easing of borders and social restrictions in the community, our country may see a rise in acute respiratory infections and COVID-19 cases.

“Getting an influenza jab can help to prevent and decrease the circulation, morbidity and consequences from both diseases and is therefore a useful tool, both at a public health and at an individual level,” he added.

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