A possible threat of flu- related outbreaks has caught the attention of health officials earlier this year.
The H3N2 virus, a subtype of Influenza A, may be the new villain.
The State Department of Health (SES) of Mato Grosso do Sul confirmed the first death from H3N2 influenza in 2019 in the state. The information was released last Thursday (11) through an epidemiological bulletin.
The victim, a 43-year-old farm worker, was diagnosed with leptospirosis . But after investigations, it was found that the death was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a complication of the H3N2 flu.
The man, whose name has not been released, died on January 26 in Corumbá, about 444 kilometers from Campo Grande, capital of MS.
According to SES, about 206 cases of suspected people infected with the virus are also being investigated, but only the case of Corumbá has actually been confirmed with the disease.
Also read: WHO warns of a new flu pandemic
It is important to prevent
In order to prevent outbreaks, it is important that the population pay attention to the preventive measures that are generally cited to prevent the circulation of this type of virus.
Simple actions, such as avoiding crowds of people, environments without ventilation, hand hygiene frequently and covering nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, are important to combat this possible threat.
In addition, vaccines participating in the national vaccination calendar are also a preventive measure.
Read more: Flu vaccination campaign runs until May 31
In 2019, the vaccine is effective for both H1N1 influenza (the most aggressive subtype of the disease) and H3N2.
Therefore, it is necessary to unite vaccination and simple measures to combat transmission, as both are important to eradicate the circulation of the virus in the country.
Watch for any flu-like symptoms and follow the guidelines of health authorities. Also, don’t be without the main prevention method: get vaccinated!
