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SWINE FLU HITS ESWATINI AGAIN

By Sifiso Dlamini | 2019-07-12

The deadly Swine Flu has hit the country once more.

Director of Health Services Dr Vusi Magagula yesterday confirmed that there has been one reported case of the deadly virus in the kingdom.

There have been a number of cases reported over the years. The virus first hit the kingdom in 2009 where there were two cases reported which were treated. In 2011 the virus hit the kingdom again and during that time, the virus was also contained. Also in 2017, there were 49 cases of the virus reported and were also treated. Dr Magagula mentioned there was no cause for panic as the health sector was well prepared for such cases.

“There is absolutely no need to panic because the treatment drugs for the virus are available,” he said.

He mentioned that the signs and symptoms of swine flu were similar to those of infections caused by other flu strains and can include fever (but not always) chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, watery, red eyes, body aches, as well as headache.

Dr Magagula said the H1N1 Flu virus was transmitted through coming into contact with the saliva or oral fluids of a contaminated person.

He advised the nation to uphold hygiene; he said when coughing, it was crucial that a person closed their mouth as it limited the spread of the virus. He also emphasised on the need for washing hands, he also advised anyone who showed the symptoms to quickly visit their nearest health facility where they would get the proper advice and treatment in case they had contracted the virus.

“I am aware that in recent times there have been bad reports about the health sector, but I urge all Emaswati to visit the health sector if suspecting to have contracted the virus as it was where they would get the required assistance,” he said. He added that those at high risk of contracting the virus are young children, pregnant women and people with underlying respiratory or other chronic conditions, including asthma and diabetes.

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