A sharp rise in flu infections across the national capital has prompted the government to issue a public health advisory and urge people to follow basic respiratory hygiene measures.
Residents have been advised to wear masks in crowded places, wash their hands frequently, avoid close contact with people who have respiratory infections, and seek medical attention if flu-like symptoms become severe or persist for a longer period of time.
As per official data, more than 1,777 H1N1 cases have been reported this year, with 114 new infections recorded on Thursday alone.
More than 2,300 influenza A cases have also been reported in the capital, prompting authorities to put preparedness measures in place.
What Does the Advisory Recommend?
The advisory recommends that people cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and wear a mask in poorly ventilated areas.
According to a renowned pulmonologist from Faridabad, the biggest mistake individuals are making during the current wave is assuming that persistent flu symptoms are just seasonal flu.
“Most infections will be self-limiting, but influenza can progress from an apparently routine respiratory illness to viral pneumonia, hypoxaemia and respiratory failure, especially in older adults, pregnant women and people with chronic heart or lung disease, metabolic disorders or weakened immunity,” the expert said.
How Does the Flu Shot Protect Against H1N1?
The vaccine exposes the immune system to influenza antigens so that it can develop antibodies without causing influenza infection from the vaccine itself.
After vaccination, the body needs time to develop this immune response. CDC says it takes approximately two weeks for protective antibodies to develop.
That is why getting vaccinated before influenza activity becomes widespread is preferable.