State Department of Health issues alert regarding circulation of influenza A virus in Sergipe

The State Department of Health (SES), through the Directorate of Health Surveillance (DVS), this Thursday, 16, issued an epidemiological alert to municipal health departments about the spread of influenza A (H3N2) virus, recommending preventive actions to the population.

Last Monday, the 13th, the SES was notified of an increase in the care of suspected cases in the hospital in the municipality of Itabaianinha. Twelve nasal swab samples were sent to the central laboratory of Sergipe (Lacen) for RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2, where all samples were negative. Of the 12 samples processed, 5 cases of influenza A H3N2 were detected, 3 men and 2 women, aged between 19 and 54 years. In addition to the cases in the municipality of Itabianinha, one case has been confirmed in Aracaju. All six (6) cases developed mild flu-like symptoms.

The epidemiological warning indicates the need to intensify surveillance procedures in suspected cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SRAG), caused by influenza virus outside the seasonal period.
In Sergipe, 825,200 doses of influenza vaccine were distributed, in reference to the target audience, during the influenza campaign in 2021, and vaccine coverage was 74.6%.

Prevention – The State Department of Health stresses the need to adopt measures that have proven to be effective in reducing the risk of contracting or transmitting respiratory diseases, such as the influenza virus: wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol gel; Avoid gatherings and closed environments, trying to keep the spaces ventilated; And use the mask.

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