Ireland on high alert for cold and flu

[Posted: Mon 22/12/2008 by Joanne McCarthy - www.irishhealth.com]

Ireland is officially on high alert for outbreaks of respiratory illness following a steep increase in the number of people suffering from coughs, colds and flus in the last week.

According to new data, some 12% of the population are affected by respiratory illnesses, representing a 74% increase in the numbers affected in the same week last year. The figures mean the 711,497 Irish people are currently suffering from respiratory ailments including chest congestion, nasal congestion, fever and sore throat.

Ireland is now on high alert as respiratory illness has reached a critical level. A high alert is called when over one tenth of the population is affected by respiratory illnesses. A severe alert is called when more than 15% of the population is affected. The high alert status will remain in place on for approximately six to 12 weeks.

A significantly high number have been affected in the Dublin area, with 10.9% of Dubliners suffering from respiratory illnesses at present. The data was released by Benylin.

“Considering the very damp and wet summer and autumn we have experienced, it isn’t surprising that we have such high incidences of cold and flu. The most effective route for fast recovery is rest combined with the appropriate remedy,” said Dublin GP Dr Michael O’Brien.

Dr O’Brien recommends that people wash their hands frequently and avoid touching their noses, eyes or mouths unnecessarily. Disposable tissues, rather than handkerchiefs, should be used and thrown out immediately after use, he added.

Also, avoiding close contact and prolonged exposure to people with colds and coughs also minimises the spread. Finally, Dr O’Brien advised that dehydration should be avoided by drinking lots of fluids and not overusing heaters.

hammer  Posted: 23/12/2008 17:36

No chance of the Govt getting any coughs & colds now that they are locked away for 39 days on holidays !!

oaktree  Posted: 23/12/2008 23:57

Ive had a chest infection since the end of October, I had 4 courses of antibiotics and steroids, I have completed the courses, but still have phelgm and mucous in my nose, I feel tired and have dark circles under my eyes. Is this normal after an infection and is there anything I can take to get myself back to normal which is usually healthy and energetic.

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