Belize Sees Sharp Spike in Severe Flu Cases

As Belize moves deeper into flu season, health authorities report a sharp increase in severe cases. The Ministry of Health reports that flu-related hospitalizations are up by fifty percent compared to last year, putting added strain on public hospitals and clinics across the country. While there has been concern internationally about the recently evolved Influenza A(H3N2) strain, local testing shows a different picture here at home, with Influenza A(H1N1) emerging as the dominant virus driving infections in Belize. Deputy Director of Health Services Laura Friesen explains what health authorities are seeing and what is being done to contain the spread.

 

Dr. Laura Friesen, Deputy Director, Public Health and Wellness

“We haven’t identified the strain in Belize so far. We have had two cases of H3N2 about two months ago. However, we haven’t seen any rise after that and we haven’t identified that specific subtype per se. What we have seen is a higher rate of influenza H1N1 and also RSV infections in the last two months..”

 

Shane Williams

“Have we seen an increase in hospitalizations this season?

 

Dr. Laura Friesen

“We have seen about fifty percent more severe respiratory tract infections compared to last year, but we do see variation from year to year. So it depends on which strains of virus. For example, like I said, the RSV has been specifically active this year, and so we, we see different strains circulating throughout the year, and we always have a rise in November and December. But we have seen a slight rise in severe infections this year. So that’s another reason for everyone to take their precautions and to try to get the influenza vaccine if you are able to. And also keep your immune system strong. Eat a healthy diet, fruits, vegetables, exercise, get your sleep. Sleep is very important for the immune system. So for the general public, just please, do your due diligence to stay healthy and strong during this season when we always have more risk of respiratory infections.”