Spain will be in trouble starting this year 2024 Waves of influenza and other respiratory viruses, after weeks of promotions. Of particular concern is the increase in influenza, which is now reaching epidemic levels. There are 438.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. This number represents an increase of 542.67% This compares with the 68.2 recorded in the December 10 report of the Carlos III Health Institute.
In the case of Melilla, the latest recorded data corresponds to the last week of last year, from December 25 to 31; showing that the city had 1,271 cases of respiratory infections per 100,000 inhabitants. These figures rank Melilla as the fourth autonomous state in Spain.
Our city’s health center still has the obligation to wear masks, but it is recommended to wear masks when going to pharmacies.
Doctor and professor of virology at the School of Pharmacy, Central European University San Pablo University said, Estanislao Nistar“, “Influenza (mainly type A) is spreading at similar levels to before the pandemic, coexisting with COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, but also with other rhinoviruses or adenoviruses, such as those that cause the common cold. Coexistence, these viruses are not that serious. , but exhibiting symptoms common to all humans.”.
In view of the rebound in infection numbers, the expert remembers that if infected with a respiratory virus, it is important to treat symptoms comprehensively from the moment they appear. He said that in this way, “we will be able to better control them, avoid complications and remove the virus from our bodies as quickly as possible.” Nistar also reminded the public that they should remember to treat coughs or sneezes, etc. Symptoms help reduce the risk of infecting others through particles expelled when coughing or sneezing.
The expert also recommended taking extreme precautions to stop the spread of different viruses.
measure
Nistar talked about a series of measures that could be taken.
first, Vaccinationespecially the elderly, who represent a high-risk group.
return handwashing. Experts insist this is a lesson learned from the pandemic that has been forgotten and should not be lost.
this The space is ventilated frequently. This gesture causes the virus to leave somewhere.
Another recommended response to an infection, whether it’s the flu or another respiratory virus, includes: Reduce physical contact, especially with vulnerable people, or wear a mask if you have symptoms.
“We are in a critical period, with very high numbers of infections, and as people return to offices and classes, so the evolution of infections will depend on factors such as people’s behavior and responsibilities,” Nistal added.
Treat thoroughly starting from the first symptoms
Influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses all have some of the most common symptoms, such as Nasal congestion, general malaise, cough, weakness, pain, or fever.
To mitigate these effects, there are different medications on the market that can be taken alone or in combination with each other to address these symptoms, but they are not effective enough to address all of these symptoms. On the other hand, compounds that relieve cold and flu symptoms, such as anti-flu drugs, offer combinations of active ingredients, such as acetaminophen, which is used to treat pain and fever; dextromethorphan, which is effective in stopping coughs; and chlorpheniramine, which reduces runny noses and snoring. sneezing; caffeine, which helps us fight decline; and vitamin C, which promotes tissue repair, allowing us to effectively address multiple symptoms with one treatment.
According to a study conducted by Kantar for health company Kenvue, although experts recommend treatment from the moment symptoms appear to avoid complications, 54.3% of respondents took no action when symptoms first appeared, and 40.2% only took anti-flu medications when symptoms worsened.
for pharmacists Francisco Javier IniestaAddressing cold and flu symptoms early is crucial because if treated promptly, their duration and intensity can be reduced, allowing patients to better cope with them..
Regarding the type of treatment, the pharmacist works on “treatments that target multiple symptoms, such as against the flu, with a more comprehensive response than paracetamol, which only combats fever and pain.”
Regardless, if symptoms appear to be consistent with influenza or some other respiratory virus, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional so they can assess the situation.