In the backdrop of media reports on rising cases of the New variant of COVID-19 (XBB 1.16) and also Influenza H3N2 in the Country, the Department of Health & Family Welfare would like to reiterate the importance of limiting and reducing transmission of Respiratory Tract Infections:

The following factor such as inadequate attention to personal hygiene, sneezing and coughing without protection nearby of other people, closed-door gatherings, etc., contribute to increased transmission of viral respiratory pathogens like Influenza A (H1N1, H3N2, etc.) including COVID-19.

While most of these pathogens typically cause mild and often self-limiting illness manifesting as acute respiratory infection with fever and cough, in some cases, particularly amongst young children, old age people, people with obesity, and other co-morbidities (like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, chronic renal and liver disease, etc.) as well as pregnant women may suffer from a more severe manifestation of these diseases requiring hospitalization.

Therefore, to limit the transmission of these diseases, the following needs to be adhered to;

1. Respiratory and Hand Hygiene

·Covering one’s mouth and nose with tissue/handkerchief/elbow when coughing or sneezing.

·Avoiding spitting in public places.

·Use of Masks in crowded environments.

·Frequent hand washing.

2.      Early reporting of symptoms to Health Care Workers to initiate early care and treatment.

3. Limiting contact with those people who are suffering from respiratory illness.

 

DO’s and Don’t’s for Infection Prevention and Control

Do’s

1. Wash hands with soap and water.
2. Wear masks and avoid crowded places.
3. Cover mouth & nose while sneezing
4. Avoid touching eyes and nose.
5. Take plenty of fluids
6. Take Paracetamol for fever and body aches.

 

Don't's

1. Shake hands or use contact greetings.
2. Spit in public.
3. Take antibiotics or other medicines without consulting a doctor.
4. Eat together sitting close to others.

 

In addition, concerning the XBB 1.16 variant of Covid-19, detection is done through Genome Sequencing of a Positive Covid-19 sample. In this regard, the last positive case reported in Nagaland is on the 11th of February 2023 and the need for sending samples for genome sequencing did not arise.

The Department of Health & Family Welfare would also like to inform the public that Surveillance has been intensified and all the Rapid Response Teams are put on alert. Further, the public is encouraged to come forward for testing of those people exhibiting signs and symptoms of Respiratory Tract Infections.

Furthermore, though, there is a rising trend of respiratory tract infections including H3N2, and Covid-19, there is no report of increased severity and the public is requested to be vigilant and not panic.

(DIPR)