After a year in confinement, the flu - almost non-existent in 2021 - may raise its share of questions this year. In fact, it is often mistaken for a simple cold.
To recognize the flu, its symptoms are mostly associated with fever and sudden cough, sore throat, severe fatigue, muscle pain, and headache. And sometimes, these are powerful enough to bed a great person to bed.
Unfortunately, in people who are more vulnerable, serious complications can occur, including a hospital stay and even death. In addition, some seniors may not regain their independence following prolonged hospitalization.
Here are 5 things to know about this infectious disease that manifests itself especially during the cold season:
1. THE FLU IS EASILY TRANSMITTED
The virus is spread by touch, among other things, on hard surfaces such as door handles and switches. Keep washing your hands regularly!
2. PEOPLE AT RISK ARE NOT ALWAYS AWARE
"I notice that many people do not realize that they are part of the clientele susceptible to serious complications. The best way for people to know if they should be vaccinated is to seek the advice of a health professional," says Dr. Yves Jalbert, Deputy Director-General for Public Health Protection.
Those with weakened immune systems, heart, lung, or kidney problems, or chronic diseases such as diabetes should receive the vaccine.
"Also, vaccination is strongly recommended for all people aged 75 and over. Pregnant women should also receive it as early as the second trimester and from the first trimester if they have a special condition. It is also advisable that people who gravitate around people at risk – for example, caregivers – get vaccinated to reduce the risk of transmission," says Dr. Jalbert.
3. THE FLU IS LIKELY TO HIT HARD THIS WINTER
In 2021, this infectious disease did not manifest itself in Quebec, particularly due to the lockdown and health measures around the world, which made it possible to limit its transmission.
This winter, the flu is expected to return in force and its symptoms could prove stronger due to the lack of antibodies: "Since last year, there was no flu in Quebec, people's immune systems are not ready. We could see a larger part of the population suffering from it, "says Dr. Jalbert.
4. ELLE CAUSE DES MILLIERS D’HOSPITALISATIONS PAR ANNÉE
"Every year, there are about 3,300 hospitalizations in Quebec due to complications due to influenza, 4% of which end in death," says the doctor. And if we calculate hospitalizations over 90, the death rate is 10%."
The health expert believes that to remedy the situation, vaccination for people at risk is the key. Especially since the COVID-19 virus is still present, so we must at all costs avoid overloading hospitals this winter.
5. THE FLU VACCINE IS FREE IN QUEBEC FOR VULNERABLE PEOPLE
The last important thing to know about the flu is that the vaccination service is free and offered in all regions of Quebec for vulnerable people. It is possible to receive it in different health facilities such as CLSCs and pharmacies.
"The flu vaccine has been shown to be effective in recent years. At present, only 20% of those at risk receive it. (...) Our goal is to reach 80% for people at risk. If all people at risk were vaccinated, we would save many lives and lighten the health system," says Dr. Jalbert.
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