JEDDAH: A steady drop in the temperatures is resulting in an increase in influenza cases in the city, with private hospitals reporting around 20 patients daily.
Doctors have urged residents to exercise caution like using face masks and avoiding cold water or drinks while advising for seasonal vaccination for those who are vulnerable to flu.
A number of residents, especially children hit by the seasonal influenza virus are complaining of symptoms like fever, headache, cough, body pain and sore throat.
“The flu season affects everybody. Excessive air conditioning, poor ventilation, change in temperature and mosquitoes contribute to the problem,” said Dr. Haneef Mohammed, a general physician.
He said that the cold and windy weather is set to continue across the region and that residents should take precautions flu. "High-risk groups such as young children, those aged over 55 years and pregnant women should protect themselves by taking vaccination, having proper sleep at night, taking flu remedies such as honey and drinking plenty of fluids."
Dr. Mohammed Ashraf, ENT specialist, said, “This is the period when there are infectious diseases around. The changing weather results in various respiratory disorders and viral infections, leading to cold, cough and flu. The heat is a natural protector against flu and kills most viruses. Residents should avoid cold winds and cover their nose and mouth when around a sick person.”
Parents are advised to make their children wear warm clothing and monitor the food habits and give high protein diet with lots of fluids and encourage hygiene practices like washing hands. In addition to this, small precautions can be taken such as avoiding refrigerated water, air conditioners and fans.
Hafsa Abdullah, a nutritionist said, “The change in weather drops the level of Vitamin D in people and encourages people to eat unhealthy food that leads to lowering the immunity. People need to be careful as the chances of getting affected are more to those whose immunity is weak.”
Afshan Aziz - Arab News
