點新聞
Through dots, we connect.
讓世界看到彩色的香港 讓香港看到彩色的世界
標籤

How to avoid respiratory illnesses during flu season?

The National Health Commission of China held a press conference on Dec. 12 to provide an update on the prevention and treatment of respiratory diseases. According to the briefing, the country is currently experiencing the flu season, though so far it is less serious than that of last year.

Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CCDC) emphasizes that there are no new infectious diseases, and that the current season of high incidence of respiratory infectious diseases may be caused by a variety of pathogens.

Wang Liping, a researcher of CCDC, introduced that the results of influenza monitoring in our country show that the dominant strain currently circulating is Influenza A virus subtype H1N1. The CCDC for Disease Control and Prevention has conducted antigenic analysis on the recently isolated H1N1 influenza A virus, suggesting a good match with this year's flu vaccine strain, making vaccination effective. Drug resistance analysis indicates that the currently circulating influenza viruses are sensitive to antiviral drugs, making drug treatments effective.

  • Influenza typically resolves on its own within one to two weeks. But if the symptoms include high fever accompanied by severe cough, dyspnea, altered mental status, severe vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs of severe illness, prompt medical intervention should be sought.
  • Pregnant women, children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions are at higher risk of developing severe influenza complications if infected.

The chief physician of Beijing Children's Hospital, Xu Baoping said that antiviral medications for influenza are prescription drugs.

"If you suspect you have the flu, it is important to seek medical attention promptly and use medication according to the doctor's prescription. Early use of antiviral drugs can effectively inhibit the replication and spread of the virus, shorten the duration and course of the flu, and help prevent complications and severe illness. However, self-administration of prescription drugs is not recommended."

  • The majority of respiratory infections in children are viral infections, and for most cases, there are no specific antiviral treatments available. Instead, management primarily focuses on addressing symptoms. Commonly prescribed medications include fever reducers, expectorants, and some traditional Chinese medicines that feature heat-clearing and detoxification.
  • Cough suppressants should be used cautiously. Unless the child's rest and sleep are disrupted by severe dry cough, otherwise cough suppressant is not suggested. Parents are advised to observe whether their children have expectoration; if so, cough suppressants should be discontinued promptly and switched to expectorants.
  • When giving medication to children, it is crucial to carefully read the instructions and precautions. Pay attention to the accuracy of the dosage; children's medication is calculated based on age and weight and should not be overdosed.

(Source: CCTV News)

Related News:

No new infectious diseases in China: China CDC

We need fresh air! Proper window ventilation in winter can enhance health

Wellness insights: Simple ways to enhance your well-being

Comment

Related Topics

New to old 
New to old
Old to new
relativity
Search Content 
Content
Title
Keyword