BY ALEX DADAMU
MINISTER responsible for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Culwick Togamana has advised against purchasing antibiotics such as amoxicillin, or any other medical drugs to treat the current flu.
Dr. Togamana made the warning when addressing the nation in a special nationwide address this afternoon.
He said antibiotics such as amoxicillin, or any other antibiotic drugs are not to treat the viral infections and are of no use in the current outbreak.
“Any antibiotics or medical drugs acquired or purchased must be done with the prescription from medical doctors,” Dr. Togamana said.
Health Minister, Dr. Togamana further advises those experiencing these flu-like symptoms to drink plenty of warm water and take Panadol if the fever persists, and for babies and children, please consult our doctors at your nearest health clinic Rest well, and eat plenty of vegetables and fruits.
“It is also important that malaria is ruled out by getting tested at your nearest clinic or private clinic once you develop fever,” he added.
Dr. Togamana confirmed that the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) in response to the outbreak in Honiara, and Malaita has activated its National Health Emergency Arrangement to manage and coordinate the response to the current outbreak.
“In doing so, we will be enhancing our surveillance of the outbreak across the country to monitor the spread.
“We are assessing and strengthening further ins for infection prevention and control measures across our health facilities to mitigate the spread of this virus in the health facilities.
“Our Health Promotion Department will be disseminating important messages through various mediums, paint, radio, social media platforms, and rollout community awareness alongside other health programs, including in health facilities, while the wider reach of the public.
“National referral hospital is experiencing an influx of patients with flu and it’s working hard to manage the situation at its emergency department.
“As part of its response, the hospital service will enter into emergency mode for time being to allow proper pre-positioning of the response.
“Patients and the public will be expected to be screened and triaged in front of the emergency department,” according to Dr. Togamana.
