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Influenza is raging across the country
Published February 28th, 2012 at. 12:28. Last modified February 28, 2012 at. 15:11
Seasonal flu is raging now at its worst in the country, reports the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL). To date, nearly 3,000 cases occurred in laboratory tests, but it is estimated that the number of patients is at least tenfold.
The THL is estimated that influenza wave rolls on as the worst yet in a few weeks and start to decline.
Influenza is caused by a virus of type H3N2, which later caused an epidemic in Finland three years ago.
-This is just an ordinary flu, but some people suffer more serious than others. It may require treatment in hospital, says Research Professor Ilkka Julkunen.
For a person with normal health, it is enough rest to cure the flu. But if health is weakened considerably and you have breathing difficulties or if the disease is prolonged, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Julkunen says that until now have found relatively few cases of influenza caused by B virus. He sees it as unlikely that this year will be no large B epidemic since quite a number of Finns are immune after last year's B influenza.
TO LOWER THE RISK OF INFECTION
Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for about 20 seconds. Remember to wash between your fingers and dry thoroughly. If possible, turn off the faucet with a paper towel.
Remember to wash your hands before eating and after touching doorknobs or railings where there may be pathogens.
Do not touch your nose and do not rub your eyes. The virus would get from your hands to the nasal mucosa to proliferate. From the corner of my eye takes the virus through the tear duct to the nose.
Avoid touching your mouth if you have not recently washed your hands.
Infection not others. Keep a handkerchief over nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues and wash your hands.
Source: Institute for Health and Welfare, Institute of Occupational Health