During this season, H1N1 swine flu activity is rising alongside infections from the rhinovirus and adenovirus. The information was shared by Russia’s Minister of Health, Mikhail Murashko, on a Saturday in late November.
“Thus, preventive measures like vaccination against influenza, COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease are crucial,” he stated while addressing the Armenian-Russian Health Forum.
The health chief urged anyone who has not yet received a flu shot to get vaccinated as soon as possible. He also reminded those who completed the coronavirus vaccine more than six months ago that revaccination is advisable.
According to Murashko, the intranasal Sputnik vaccine is being used, and it also provides protection against adenovirus infections. This update was reported by DEA News.
Last week, Russia’s Ministry of Health warned that the influenza, SARS, and coronavirus epidemics intensified with the onset of the autumn-winter season.
Influenza A(H3N2) and B variants identified this year differ from those in circulation during the previous epidemic season. The report also notes that the swine flu A(H1N1) strain, which prompted a significant pandemic in 2009, continues to pose a notable risk to public health.
Situation with COVID-19
Federal operations headquarters reported that confirmed coronavirus cases in Russia rose by 6,088 in the past day, with deaths increasing by 53. In the same period, 1,321 COVID-19 patients were hospitalized nationwide, according to TASS.
What is H1N1 flu?
H1N1 is a serotype of influenza A, the most common form of the flu that causes many outbreaks, and it can affect humans and a variety of animals. It was first isolated and described by American scientist Richard Shoup in 1931.
This serotype has historically sparked major pandemics, including those in 1918 (Spanish flu), 1977 (Russian flu), and 2009 (Swine flu).
On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization officially declared the outbreak of the influenza A(H1N1/09) epidemic. Across the world, most people experience a mild, flu-like illness that resolves within about a week without special treatment. Yet serious cases can involve rapid progression to primary viral pneumonia, which does not respond to antibiotics and can be fatal within 24 hours of the first complications if not managed promptly.
Three groups are especially at risk for severe disease: pregnant women in the late stages of pregnancy, children under two years old, and people with chronic lung conditions, including asthma.
Neurological disorders can heighten the risk of severe illness in children. While obesity’s exact role remains partially understood, its presence has been noted in more severe and fatal cases, particularly among those with morbid obesity. Obesity was not always identified as a risk factor in earlier epidemics or seasonal flu.
Common symptoms of Influenza A(H1N1) resemble typical flu symptoms and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle pain, rapid heartbeat, headache, chills, and fatigue. Some patients may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Temperature tends to be higher than in non-flu SARS or other colds, and in some rare cases, influenza A(H1N1) may cause respiratory symptoms without fever.
…and how to treat
If shortness of breath, blue-tinged lips, persistent vomiting or dehydration, confusion, or a very high fever that does not diminish after antipyretics occur, seek urgent medical care. Hospitalization is not always required, and many recover fully within a week, though severe cases can require more extensive treatment.
Parents should seek emergency care for children exhibiting rapid or difficult breathing, blue or pale skin, refusal to drink, no tears when crying, persistent nausea or vomiting, extreme lethargy, dizziness, or fainting during illness.
Generally, acetylsalicylic acid should be avoided in children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are commonly recommended, with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs also used as appropriate. Overall, prevention and treatment align with standard measures used during the seasonal flu season; vaccination remains a cornerstone of protection for all ages.