Experts advised the public to take precautions and maintain good hygiene practices while citing ways to boost immunity to prevent the influenza virus.
Talking to a private news channel, A specialist for Chest Infection Dr Rashid Dawood said that most parts of the country especially in Karachi hospitals witnessing a surge in cases of ‘the influenza virus’, adding, that we advised people to take precautions and not to panic given rise in influenza cases.
“It is important to take extra care by following all the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection,” he added. Dr suggested that people should primarily avoid visiting crowded places which include markets, offices, and family gatherings and in case of unavoidable situations, should wear face-mask, maintain hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
He said the public should remember how we dealt with COVID-19 times, adding, the same things should apply again and cover their mouth while sneezing and coughing.
Replying to a question, he said that people with one or more of the following symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue may be infected with influenza or another virus.
People with influenza-like symptoms should isolate and avoid close contact with other people, he said, adding, that if this is not possible, the use of a face mask by people who are ill with influenza symptoms may help contain respiratory secretions when the person coughs or sneezes and lower the risk for infection among close contacts.