Increase in Influenza Cases

A new InfoGripe Bulletin from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), released last Friday (26), analyzed flu cases from April 13 to 19.

In Brazil, 13 states and the Federal District are at alert, risk, or high-risk levels for the incidence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), according to Agência Brasil. In these locations, the trend is an increase in cases, and nationwide, there has also been an increase in hospitalizations due to influenza A, which is the flu virus.

According to the bulletin, the states with the highest incidences of SARS are Acre, Bahia, Federal District, Espírito Santo, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Pará, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio de Janeiro, Santa Catarina, Sergipe, and São Paulo.

According to pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist Jessica Polese, with the drop in temperatures and the rainy season amid milder weather, we are seeing an increase in respiratory infection cases. “Many patients are complaining of characteristic symptoms such as fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, muscle pain (myalgias), and a general feeling of malaise,” the doctor says. “And we are hearing many reports of influenza flu that is leaving many people unwell and even bedridden, with weakness,” she points out.

Jessica warns about prevention, vaccination, and emphasizes other important preventive measures. “It is essential to maintain hand hygiene, avoid crowds in closed and poorly ventilated environments, and wear a mask if experiencing flu-like symptoms. Sleeping well and maintaining a balanced diet also strengthen the immune system,” recommends the pulmonologist. According to her, at the first sign of symptoms, the guidance is to seek medical attention, especially if there is persistent fever, shortness of breath, or worsening of the general condition.