Kenya has seen an increase in cases of flu and the common cold over the previous several weeks, generating concern and presenting new hurdles.
According to medical experts, the country has not had a regular flu season in the last two years as a result of the government’s pandemic containment measures.
According to statistics, there have been about 10,000 instances of flu across the country, prompting some people to resume wearing masks in public places.
One of the most serious concerns is that patients could contract both Covid-19 and the flu at the same time, resulting in flurona.
Medical experts, however, have ruled out the prospect of another epidemic in the country.
“We haven’t experienced a typical flu season for the past two years as the country was under lockdown thus the minimal spread of viruses in the community.
“The number of patients with flu-like symptoms being admitted to hospital has increased,” a report on the flu outbreak explained.
In an interview with Citizen TV on Monday, May 23, doctor Ahmed Yakub Kalebi stated that the flu could be caused by other viruses such as Influenza.
“There are hundreds of viruses that can potentially cause flu. Interestingly in many countries and certainly here in Kenya, the respiratory infection we are seeking is linked to Influenza A,” Kalebi explained.
The majority of people have developed immunity to Covid-19, according to the doctor, and increasing vaccine uptake has protected citizens from catching the virus.
“I don’t expect us to get into another serious wave because of the understanding of the disease. Almost 80 per cent of the people have been exposed to the virus so as a result, most people have developed immunity.
“Notably, the increased understanding especially among the frontline workers has helped the country shield itself from the virus,” he assured.
On the other side, AMREF CEO Githinji Gitahi encouraged the government to intensify its vaccination uptake campaign to prevent the country from experiencing a viral outbreak.
Parents were also advised to be cautious and safeguard their children from getting the flu virus, as they had had limited exposure in the previous two years.
“This can be very serious, especially for young children who have had little to no exposure to flu over the last two years,” the medic explained.
