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Increase in Severe Flu Cases During Summer Raises Concerns: Experts Urge Public to Stay Vigilant

According to recent statistics released by the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an unusual surge in flu cases has been observed even during the summer season. Over the past week, 25 individuals have been affected by severe flu complications, resulting in 8 fatalities. The medical community is urging the public to remain vigilant and familiarize themselves with the telltale signs of severe flu. Pediatrician Xu Jiaxian emphasized the importance of seeking prompt medical attention if symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, or unconsciousness are present.

The occurrence of flu cases during summer is certainly perplexing. Dr. Xu Jiaxian took to his Facebook page to express his bewilderment, noting that such instances were incredibly rare in previous years. However, this year has witnessed a concerning departure from the norm. Dr. Xu emphasized that unusual strains of the flu virus have emerged, contrary to expectations.

The underlying reasons behind this unexpected phenomenon remain speculative. Dr. Xu raises the possibility that the reduced rate of flu vaccinations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and individuals’ exhausted immune systems may have contributed to this atypical situation. However, he emphasized that further investigation is needed to uncover all potential factors.

Common symptoms associated with the flu include high fever, muscle aches, coughing, and in some cases, gastrointestinal issues. However, it is crucial to recognize the warning signs of severe flu, such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and unconsciousness. Moreover, Dr. Xu stressed the significance of getting vaccinated against the flu. In Taiwan, public and self-financed flu vaccines will be available from the end of September to October. Additionally, a more robust flu vaccine specifically designed for individuals over the age of 65, known as the adjuvant flu vaccine, will be introduced to the market to enhance protection for this vulnerable population.

Furthermore, Dr. Xu made an important distinction between flu and COVID-19. While it is understandable for individuals to exhibit caution and adopt a Buddhist attitude towards suspected cases of new coronavirus infection, he emphasized that antiviral drugs are available for treating the flu. Therefore, he advises individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms to consult with their healthcare provider.

In light of these concerning developments, it is essential for the public to stay informed and take appropriate preventive measures. By remaining proactive and informed, individuals can play a crucial role in curbing the spread and impact of the flu.

According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, there were 25 new cases of influenza complicated by serious illness last week; another 8 cases died. Pediatricians are reminding the public to pay attention to the precursors of severe flu. (Schematic / Pexels)

According to statistics from the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this year is different from previous years as flu cases are still in the summer, and 25 new cases of flu complicated with serious illness have been added last a week; another 8 cases died. Pediatrician Xu Jiaxian said it was “very strange” and reminded the public to pay attention to the precursors of severe flu, including rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and unconsciousness. If there are any abnormalities, they should seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

It’s summer, how can there be flu? Xu Jiaxian posted on his Facebook fan page that this situation is “really strange” because in the past, there were almost no cases of flu in the summer, “but this year is very abnormal. There are many viruses that should not appear on this since recently appeared. gone.”

What is the reason? Xu Jiaxian speculated, “Because everyone was vaccinated against the new crown last year, and they were very tired of the world, so the proportion of flu vaccines decreased? Or is it because everyone’s immune response to the flu has been like a blank sheet of paper in recent years, and the immune debt?” But he pointed out that there are still many possible factors to be seen.

Xu Jiaxian said typical flu symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, cough, and a few combined gastrointestinal symptoms; serious precursors to the flu include rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and unconsciousness. He also reminded that it is now the middle of July, remember to pay attention to the public and self-financed flu vaccines that will be launched from the end of September to October,” and this year the Taiwan market will introduce a stronger flu vaccine in particular for the elderly over the age of 65 Vaccine (also known as: adjuvant flu vaccine), because the immune response of the elderly will weaken faster, and the protection is often not as good as ideal, so there is a new booster vaccine to protect the elderly.”

In addition, Xu Jiaxian revealed that many patients these days have a Buddhist attitude towards the suspected diagnosis of new coronary pneumonia, which is understandable, but the difference with influenza is that antiviral drugs are available, so he reminded, “If there is Discuss flu-like symptoms with your doctor.”

(Photo / Reposted from Facebook / Dr. Xu Jiaxian, father of dark circles)
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