Doctor advises flu vaccine before Eid break

Dr Mohamed Ali has advised the public to receive the influenza vaccine before the upcoming Eid holidays as cases of the illness continue to increase in the Maldives.

The Health Protection Authority (HPA) stated that influenza is caused by a virus and urged the public to take precautionary measures.

Dr Mohamed Ali said people should receive the influenza vaccine at least two weeks before Eid holidays, noting that the vaccine requires time to become effective in the body.

“It will take two weeks for the vaccine to work in the body,” he said.

He said influenza spreads easily and that transmission could increase during busy periods such as Eid holidays, when people gather and travel more frequently.

According to the HPA, influenza and the common cold may have similar symptoms, but they are caused by different viruses. The authority stated that influenza can have more serious effects than the common cold.

Symptoms of influenza include coughing, body aches and headaches. Infants, elderly people and individuals with conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are considered to be at higher risk.

The HPA advised the public to take preventive measures, including washing hands regularly with soap and water, wearing masks in crowded places or when experiencing symptoms, and maintaining cleanliness.

The authority also advised people who are ill to drink plenty of fluids and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Alongside influenza, cases of dengue and asthma are also increasing, according to health authorities.