Health authorities in Suriname have sounded the alarm over a significant surge in influenza cases across the nation. The Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor (VW&A) has issued an urgent public health advisory calling for heightened vigilance and strict adherence to preventive measures to curb further viral transmission.
According to the ministry’s latest assessment, implementing basic yet effective hygiene practices can substantially reduce infection risks. Critical recommendations include frequent handwashing with soap and water, utilizing alcohol-based sanitizers, practicing respiratory etiquette by coughing or sneezing into elbows, and proper disposal of used tissues. The advisory also emphasizes avoiding close contact with individuals displaying flu-like symptoms.
Citizens experiencing influenza symptoms are urged to remain home and wear face masks when public interaction is unavoidable. The ministry further underscores the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyle practices—adequate rest, balanced nutrition, proper hydration, and regular physical activity—to bolster immune defenses.
For those already affected, health officials recommend sufficient rest and increased fluid intake including water, tea, and soup. While paracetamol may alleviate fever and pain, aspirin is strongly discouraged for pediatric cases. Maintaining hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette remains crucial even during illness to prevent community spread.
The ministry specifically advises immediate medical consultation when fever persists beyond three days, respiratory difficulties emerge, severe chest pain develops, or symptoms suddenly worsen. Elderly populations and individuals with chronic health conditions require particular vigilance due to elevated complication risks.
Emphasizing collective responsibility, the Health Ministry asserts that proactive compliance with preventive measures can significantly mitigate influenza’s societal impact and better protect vulnerable demographic groups during this ongoing outbreak.