In clarification to the current news on influenza preventive measures, especially H1N1, the Ministry of Health (MOH) confirms that the term 'swine flu' is no longer used globally since 2009. This strain now falls under the seasonal flu which occurs every winter.
"According to medical guidelines and seasonal flu manual- adopted by global organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), communicable diseases associations, American and European Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - H1N1 strain preventive and therapeutic measures differ from other strains.", stress MOH.
"Also, during seasonal flu, not all mates of confirmed cases go through lab tests. Diagnosis, rather, depends on showing symptoms; thus, such cases receive the needed medication. Otherwise, they receive flu shots.", adds MOH.
In the same vein, MOH points out that this year features an intense activity of H1N1 in the Middle East, north Africa, and South-Central Asia; compared to previous seasons, On the other hand, H3N2 is very active in Europe and North America.
It is noted that flu shots cover both H1N1 and H3N2 strains. The vaccine effectively reduces flu-incurred complications in general, and H1N1 complications in particular.
Likewise, MOH monitors the flu activity through control centers across the Kingdom. MOH also monitors constantly the common strains, in addition to providing quality flu treatment, and controlling acute pneumonia cases year-round. MOH also continues to prevent flu through extensive immunization campaigns. So far, by Allah's Grace, over 2.2 million people have been immunized against flu. For the first time, the campaign exceeds 1.6 million. It is also expected to cover 4+ millions across the Kingdom.
In this regard, MOH has developed a standard-based therapeutic action plan, and has distributed it to all health sectors, to reduce flu-incurred complications. Flu is more dangerous to persons between 6 months and 6 years of age, as well as those above 65 years of age. Also, individuals with chronic diseases, such as cardiac, pulmonary, renal, diabetic illnesses, as well as pregnant women, have higher risks. So, they are more recommended to have flu shots.