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The rate of hospitalizations by flu continues to rise in Brazil, according to Fiocruz’s latest Infogipe Bulletin. The survey reveals that, in the last six weeks, 14 Brazilian capitals have increased in cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SRAG) caused by influenza virus – the most common influenza agent (see more details below).
Flu Hospitalizations are rising in the country | Freepik
The capitals with hospitalizations growth are: Aracaju (SE), Belém (PA), Belo Horizonte (MG), Campo Grande (MS), Cuiabá (MT), Florianópolis (SC), Natal (RN), Rio Branco (AC), Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Salvador (BA), Sao Paulo (SP) and Vitória (ES).
Other cities, such as Boa Vista (RR), Brasilia (DF), Goiânia (GO), Macapá (AP), Palmas (TO) and Porto Velho (RO), are at alert or high risk, but with long -term stabilization trend.
What are the differences between the types of flu and how to prevent?
From Latin influentia, “flow in”, Influenza is synonymous with flu in Brazil. There are three types known, the one that is the most prevalent and with subtypes H1N1 and H3N2; B, which causes seasonal epidemics and is usually less severe than influenza A. Type C causes minor infections and is less common, according to the Federal District Health Department.
Faced with the advance of the flu, experts reinforce the need for preventive measures.
“The scenario calls for intensification of prevention. It is recommended to use masks in closed places and within health posts, as well as respiratory label,” says Tatiana Portella, researcher at Fiocruz’s Scientific Processing Program.
It also highlights the importance of influenza vaccination. The public health network, through SUS, is offering the vaccine for priority groups such as children, pregnant women and elderly over 60, which protects against the two influenza subtypes (H1N1 and H3N2) and a lineage of influenza B (trivalent). In the private network, the vaccine can be taken by all people and protects against all influenza B (quadrivalent) strains.
The value ranges from $ 79 to $ 120.
Flu Alert Signs
According to cardiologist Rodrigo Almeida Souza, the common symptoms of respiratory infections include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, muscle pain and tiredness. Although usually benign, some signs may indicate heart involvement and require urgent medical attention:
- Pain or tightness in the chest;
- Shortness of breath, even at rest;
- Palpitations or irregular beats;
- Dizziness or episodes of fainting;
- Swelling in the legs and ankles;
- Extreme and inexplicable tiredness.
- If these symptoms arise, especially after a flu or cold, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
According to the Butantan Institute, the signs usually last for five to seven days, but the cough may persist for up to two weeks.
