Whole body aching... The number of flu patients has more than doubled in a week

Be careful of colds. There are really a lot of flu cases ㅠㅠ

 

Increase for 7 consecutive weeks

Rapid increase among children and adolescents

The number of influenza (flu) patients is increasing rapidly. The number of suspected flu cases has been on a rising trend for seven consecutive weeks and has recently more than doubled in just one week. In particular, there has been a sharp increase in pediatric and adolescent patients.

 

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's "Infectious Disease Sentinel Surveillance Weekly Newsletter," the number of suspected influenza patients in the 51st week of this year (December 15-21) was 31.3 per 1,000 outpatients, approximately 2.3 times higher than the previous week (13.6).

 

Patients suspected of having the flu have been increasing for seven consecutive weeks. In weeks 42 to 44, the number was 3.9 per 1,000 people, but in week 45 it was 4, in week 46 it was 4.6, in week 47 it was 4.8, in week 48 it was 5.7, in week 49 it was 7.3, in week 50 it was 13.6, and in week 51 it was 31.3.

 

This level far exceeds the threshold of 8.6 per 1,000 people, which is the current seasonal outbreak standard. As influenza cases increase, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has issued an 'Influenza Outbreak Alert' nationwide on the 20th.

 

In particular, there was a notable increase in pediatric and adolescent patients. The proportion of suspected influenza cases among 13 to 18-year-olds was 74.6 per 1,000 people, which is 8.7 times higher than the epidemic threshold. Patients aged 7 to 12 followed, with 62.4 per 1,000 people.

 

The flu symptoms typically appear after an average incubation period of 2 days following infection with the virus. The main symptoms include high fever above 38°C, muscle aches, cough and phlegm, runny nose, sore throat, and headache. Above all, many people complain of severe muscle pain, describing it as "whole body aching as if beaten" or "bone joints hurting." Additionally, children, the elderly, and those with weakened digestive systems may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea.

 

The flu is transmitted to others through coughing, sneezing, and other means. Therefore, if you have respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, or sore throat, you should visit a nearby medical facility for treatment.

 

A representative from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency urged, "To prevent the spread within group living facilities such as kindergartens, daycare centers, schools, and elderly care facilities, indoor ventilation should be performed every two hours, and proper cough etiquette should be observed, paying close attention to infection prevention."

 

Meanwhile, children aged 6 months to 13 years, pregnant women, and seniors aged 65 and older who are eligible for national influenza vaccination support can receive free vaccinations at designated medical institutions or health centers.

Influenza Prevention Guidelines. Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency

 

Kwon Nayeon Reporter kny0621@nongmin.com