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By Annonciata Byukusenge
The Ministry of Health has reminded Rwandans to exercise caution during this flu season. Current indicators show that the Influenza A virus is the predominant strain, with no new strains identified in Rwanda.
This message conveyed through the Ministry’s X (formerly Twitter) platform, emphasizes the importance of preventing flu during the cold season and the first months of the year, as these are periods when the disease tends to affect people the most.
Influenza A caused by the Influenza virus and is particularly prevalent during the cold season. It primarily affects children under five years old, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The symptoms of Influenza A include a severe cough, chills, weakness, headache, loss of appetite, sore throat, difficulty breathing, severe diarrhea and vomiting in children, and fever.
Statistics from the Ministry of Health reveal that between 2022 and this year, 6.6% of the population across the country has been diagnosed with Influenza A. In 2022, the disease was most prevalent from April to July. In 2023, the highest prevalence was recorded from January to April and again between May and July. In 2024, the peak period occurred between January and March.
The Ministry of Health advises the public to remain vigilant during these times by adopting preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with others, and seeking medical attention when symptoms appear.
The Kigali University Hospital (CHUK) has echoed this advice, urging its staff, patients, caregivers, and visitors to take precautions against the flu. In a statement issued on January 6, 2025, the hospital outlined measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
