Increase in flu-like illness in Honiara

The Ministry of Health has confirmed today that it has recorded increase in flu-like illness in Honiara and parts of the country.

In a statement to the media from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and delivered to today, Secretary to the Prime Minister, Dr Jimmie Rodegrs said the NRH molecular laboratory following testing has detected Influenza H1 since last month.

He said this is a different strain from Influenza H3 which was detected and have been circulating in August last year.

He warned that such flu like illness can be life threatening to persons with asthma, and other respiratory illness as well as underlying health conditions.

“To avoid catching these flu viruses and prevent it from spreading – public are advised to implement similar measures to that practiced for COVID-19. Washing of hands, coughing into the elbows and wear masks in public and crowded places and avoid close contacts with persons experiencing flu and cough,” said Dr Rodgers.

Meanwhile he said dengue is also circulating and presenting similar symptoms such as acute fever so “ensure you get tested for dengue and malaria.”

He said the Ministry will increase testing across its sentinel sites.