BY ALEX DADAMU
MINISTER of Health and Medical Services Dr. Culwick Togamana in a special address to the nation this afternoon has declared an outbreak of viral respiratory infection in Honiara, and Malaita.
Dr. Togamana made the announcement citing an initial increase of 243 percent from 234 cases being recorded during the week, July 25 to 31 to 803 being recorded on the following week of August 1 to 7.
According to the Health Minister, data collected shows that in Malaita Province, Atoifi Hospital recorded an increase of 223% and Auki Clinic recorded a 387% increase in cases. In Honiara, our National Referral Hospital recorded an increase of 264%, Kukum clinic – by 110%, and Rove clinic by 387%.
In terms of admission to the National Referral Hospital Emergency Department, Dr. Togamana revealed that in the past 24 hours, 72% of total Emergency Department Admissions are respiratory patients, 68 adults, and 26 children.
“Initially, most of the cases presenting to health facilities were babies and children. Now we are also seeing an influx of adults also presenting with flu-like illnesses.
“Symptoms include flu or runny nose, coughing, fever, nausea or vomiting, headache, and shortness of breath,” Dr. Togamana said.
He further announced that 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.
“Additional space will be created at the referral clinic side as an extension of the respiratory unit for patients, children, and adults for their accurate assessment and treatment before deciding on admission to the wards.
“Old referrals will be managed at the makes it referral clinic by each department at their words.
“All department doctors will allocate 24-hour review teams to the emergency department.
Dr. Togamana in the meantime instructs the public stating that the current health advisory for this outbreak is to once again, practice and practice constantly the following public health measures.
- Wearing of mask in public places, such as along the streets, at the markets, inside of stores, and when traveling by public transport, such as buses and taxis.
- Constantly practice hand washing with soap or hand sanitizer.
- Maintain a social distance of at least a meter from another person, as much as possible.
- Avoid public or large gatherings.
- Avoid visitation to families and friends in another household.
- Maintain personal hygiene at all times.
“To those experiencing these flu-like symptoms, drink plenty of water, warm water and take Panadol if 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,” Health Minister, Dr. Culwick Tagamana said.
