Mérida, Yucatán — With the beginning of flu season this week, the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) will apply 305,387 vaccination shots in Yucatán, said health coordinator Alonso Sansores Río.
As temperatures begin to drop, the IMSS will administer the influenza vaccine to the adult population and children under the age of five. People without a National Health Card are advised to visit the nearest Family Medicine Unit (UMF) and request a vaccination.
“Influenza is a seasonal condition that during the cold season registers an increase in the number of cases. The virus is transmitted through droplets of saliva that expel from sick people when talking, coughing, sneezing, sharing food utensils or kissing,” explained Dr. Sansores Rio.
Some common symptoms of people who become ill from influenza virus are a temperature greater than 38C/100.4F and a sore throat. It is usually also accompanied by muscle aches.
Dr. Rio explained that as the microorganism survives between 48 and 72 hours on smooth and porous surfaces such as hands, handles, handrails, handkerchiefs and fabrics, so it is advised to wash hands frequently or disinfect them with antibacterial gel.
He also said that covering a sneeze should be done with the elbow, not hand. And, naturally, stay away from people who have a cough.
Source: Milenio Novedades
