The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Religious Affairs is reminding the public that we are in the Influenza ‘Flu’ Season and vaccines are available at all health centers and medical stations throughout the State.

Influenza, commonly referred to as the ‘Flu’, is an acute viral infection that spreads easily among individuals through coughing, sneezing and close contact, or by touching contaminated surfaces.

The flu can present severe symptoms in children, including diarrhea and seizures and should also be taken seriously by adults as it can lead to pneumonia and blood infection. More common symptoms can include fever/chills, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, cough, headache, and runny or stuffy nose.

Grenada’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shawn Charles warns that the flu can further complicate already existing chronic medical conditions in an individual. “So we are reminding members of the public to practice good hygiene, including washing hands with soap and water; and covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, which will help to prevent the transmission of the virus”, he added.

While the virus is circulating worldwide and can affect anyone; children, healthcare workers, the elderly with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, individuals who are institutionalised, and non-health frontline workers are at particularly high risk.

Flu vaccines are being made available by the Ministry of Health free of cost to members of the public, and the Ministry is also advising people who suspect that they may have the flu to get adequate rest, avoid close contact with other individuals and avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth.