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Posted: Friday 26 January, 2018 at 12:16 PM

Dr. Martin Urges no Panic in Flu Case

By: Jermine Abel, SKNVibes.com
    BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, Jan.26.2018 – AS medical officials in the United States continue to grapple with the deadly flu epidemic, former Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Patrick Martin has urged citizens and residents in St. Kitts and Nevis not to panic.
     
    Reports out of the United States indicate that over 30 people, including children have died as a result of contracting the flu.
     
    Speaking with the media recently, Dr. Martin explained that because people of the Caribbean live in the warm climate, they would not be as hard hit.
     
    According to the MD, the flu becomes rampant when the place is cold, wet and people are indoors, and there is no air – as in the case of the United States.
     
    He added that it is also rampant when people are not eating fresh fruits and vegetables.
     
    But that is different in St. Kitts and Nevis: “We have access to fresh air, the sea, bush tea, fresh fruits and vegetables; and we are going to be alright.”
     
    “We just have to ensure that we eat fresh and eat healthy…drink your water and you are going to be alright. And most of all, maintain a positive frame of mind.”
     
    The very young and the very old are the most vulnerable groups of people in society, Dr. Martin disclosed.
     
    In a statement released today, Dr, Martin pointed out that the 2018 Seasonal Influenza is in full swing, hot on the heels of Christmas and the Carnival Road March.  
     
    He stated that seasonal influenza is caused by “influenza type A and influenza type B viruses, mostly the former.  The types are classified according to the genes on the surface of the virus”. 

    “Some residents of SKN are experiencing typical symptoms of the flu such as fever and chills, muscle aches and pains, runny and stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, loss of appetite and fatigue.  Persons of any age may be affected particularly children under 5 years and the elderly,” he stated. 
     
    The MD emphasized that there is no need for persons to be rushing to the emergency room. For people who are normally healthy, the flu resolves in 3-5 days without complications and without the use of medications except paracetamol.
     
    “The majority of affected persons can be easily managed at home using rest and lots of fluids such as water, homemade juices and soups, and bush teas. Flu vaccination is not that effective because it is manufactured in advance of the season and because the predicted sub-type may not be circulating. 
     
    “Anti-viral medications are expensive and usually reserved for complicated cases to limit the rise of resistance.”
     
    Dr. Martin disclosed that there are simple anti-flu measures that can be taken to prevent the transmission of the virus, such as avoiding sick persons and staying home if sick.  
     
    “Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is very effective.  Alcohol-based hand rub may be used if soap and water are not available.
     
    “Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to sick persons must be thoroughly washed before used by others.  Eating utensils can be washed by hand with water and soap and do not need to be cleaned separately.”

    He also indicated that frequently touched surfaces at home, work and school should be cleaned and disinfected, especially if someone is ill.
     
     
     

     

     

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