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Grenada Experiencing Spike In Influenza Cases

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada , March 31, 2018 (CMC) – The Epidemiology Unit of Grenada’s Ministry of Health has confirmed reports of an increase in the amount of influenza cases on island.

As a result, Head of the unit, Dr. Shawn Charles, said the necessary tests will be done to confirm the strain of the virus that leads to muscular aches and pain, as well as sneezing and coughing.

“We all accept that, traditionally, we are in the regular flu season and we expect to have some cases but, we have noticed what can best be described as a dramatic spike, and that certainly warrants immediate personal action to prevent transmission,” he added.

Charles noted the spike has risen by over 100 percent.

“We have seen a marked increase, of approximately 115 percent, in reported cases compared to the previous week. That is way above normal readings from the same district, around this time of year,” he said, while referring to a district in the eastern parish of St Andrew’s.

“We have received the kits for testing patients for the strain and they were sent to various health facilities; so persons seeking care from the flu through the Government health facilities will be swabbed and the samples will be sent for testing in Trinidad,” he said.

Charles advised that in order to curb the spread, individuals must practice proper and regular hand washing to avoid becoming infected and prevent transmission.

He also urged the public to seek medical care from a doctor and not to self-medicate.

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