Here’s Why It Feels Like Everyone In Malta Is Currently Down With The Flu
The colder months of December and January bring with them the inevitable arrival of influenza, and this season seems to have hit particularly hard. Malta has been no exception, with the current average of reported sicknesses already higher than previous years.
Public Health Superintendent Dr. Charmaine Gauci has in fact confirmed that Malta is currently looking at a rate of 93 cases of influenza per 1,000 people, which adds up to a whole 9% of the population. No wonder everyone in Malta knows at least a person or two who are currently bedridden.
“Nine out of every 100 people going to the doctor for any reason are specifically going because they’re suffering from influenza,” Dr. Gauci told One News. The whole thing reportedly started all the way back in early December, weeks before the usual timeframe.
Dr. Gauci went on to explain that Malta is currently going through the peak of influenza cases, and that the phenomenon is expected to persist for some more weeks. “In fact, last year saw the numbers decrease towards the end of February,” she said.
The Public Health Superintendent went on to say that it’s vital for people who are not feeling well to refrain from going in to work or school until they feel better. “It’s also important to avoid being in a closed, crowded room since there’s an increased probability of it spreading,” Dr. Gauci said. “It’s also very important to use tissues when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of them immediately.”
When compared to last year, an additional 16,000 vaccinations were administered this season. This brings the grand total to 90,677 shots.
Dr. Gauci urged everyone else who has not yet been vaccinated to do so as soon as possible, saying they are still in time.
Tag someone who’s down with the flu to let them know they’re not alone.
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