Pretoria – The Department of Health says there is no need to panic should there be an increase in the cases of influenza, including H1N1 (swine flu).
“The pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus, commonly known as “swine flu” … is now a seasonal influenza virus that co-circulates with other seasonal viruses.
“The department would like to reassure the public that it is well geared to respond to the influenza situation in this country, including H1N1,” it said in a statement.
The department urged the public to take preventative steps to reduce the chances of getting flu.
“These steps including basic hygiene measures such as sneezing into a tissue and disposing of it safely, washing of hands regularly with soap and water, avoiding contact with sick people, staying at home when developing influenza-like symptoms to avoid infecting others,” it added.
Following these steps could limit the chances of getting flu and also reduce the number of South Africans who succumb to it. – BuaNews
