The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs has reminded that the country is in the midst of the flu season, which spans from October to March. This, the Ministry says, is a period during which infections by respiratory viruses tend to increase. Describing this period as a high-risk season, the Ministry has urged all to take proactive steps to protect themselves and others from respiratory illnesses.
The Ministry believes islands like Saint Lucia is particularly sensitive to viruses which are circulating internationally and continuous movement of people across borders means that respiratory illnesses which are present globally can quickly reach the island’s shores. The Ministry of Health says it remains vigilant in monitoring circulating respiratory viruses to guide preparedness and response measures and encourages the rest of the country to do the same.
So far, global reports indicate low activity of the COVID-19 virus, but increasing circulation of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and the seasonal influenza virus, specifically influenza A subtype H3N2.
Similar trends in the circulation of respiratory viruses have been observed in Saint Lucia. At present, reported cases of COVID-19 virus are reportedly low, with most cases having been detected earlier in the year.
Respiratory Syncitial Virus shows some activity currently, while the seasonal influenza virus is currently the most active virus and is the leading cause of many respiratory symptoms in the country. As per global trends influenza A subtype H3N2 has been detected in individuals with respiratory symptoms at our health care facilities.
There are many subtypes of the Influenza A virus among them H1N1 and H3N2 most commonly affect humans. H3N2 has been detected previously in St Lucia. H3N2 is known to cause more intense respiratory symptoms and complications particularly in young children, the elderly and persons with weakened immune systems.