As flu and RSV seasons coincide, early vaccination and preventive measures can safeguard community health.
Image: Pexels
With flu season arriving earlier than expected in South Africa, health experts stress the need for vaccinations.
Notably, the influenza season’s declaration comes as the rate of flu cases, monitored by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), increased and was sustained over two consecutive weeks. This year’s onset mirrors the 2025 season, which began on March 24.
In addition to flu, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season has also commenced, coinciding with the flu season's arrival the same week. The overlap of these two respiratory illnesses suggests a potential surge in patients seeking medical aid for respiratory issues in the weeks ahead, raising concerns for healthcare facilities that could face a higher burden of illness.
Influenza A(H3N2), A(H1N1)pdm09, and influenza B are the predominant strains affecting humans during this flu season. While the majority of flu cases are mild and resolve within three to seven days, the reality remains stark that influenza can lead to serious complications requiring hospitalisation or, in some instances, can be fatal. High-risk populations, including pregnant women, individuals living with HIV, those with chronic health conditions like diabetes, lung disease, and older adults aged 65 and above, are particularly vulnerable.
To enhance protection against severe illness, vaccination is deemed crucial. The influenza vaccine, set to become available in pharmacies from the first week of April, takes approximately two weeks to elicit an adequate immune response post-vaccination. Given this year’s earlier than expected onset of flu, those in vulnerable categories are urged to obtain their vaccinations promptly. While it is ideal to vaccinate before the flu season starts, it is by no means too late to protect oneself now.
As the RSV season begins, traditionally a precursor to flu, parents and caregivers must also be mindful of the dangers RSV poses, especially to infants; it leads to bronchiolitis and lower respiratory tract infections in young children and can precipitate severe health issues. As RSV is highly contagious, primarily spreading through respiratory droplets, preventative measures are vital to curb its transmission.
In the face of these two respiratory seasons, health professionals underscore the importance of adopting basic hygiene practices to reduce the spread of flu and RSV. Simple steps such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes with an elbow or tissue, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when unwell can play a significant role in protecting oneself and the community at large.
IOL