Community of Madrid already recorded epidemic of the influenza virus activity.

total 913.261 inhabitants have been vaccinated this season against the flu, 1.5% more than in the previous

– cases have been 69,78 per 100,000 people, above the threshold

-health reminds people that necessary to avoid emergencies, unless severe

Spain, February 2013.- community of Madrid has begun to show epidemic activity or high circulation of the flu virus in the region, with an incidence of 69,78 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. For the first time in the season exceeded the epidemic threshold, established in 42,96 cases.

With the foreseeable rise in the number of cases, the Department of health reminds that they should not be used emergency services except where serious complications. Have to insist on the convenience of going to the family doctor if fever does not return, the person suffers from shortness of breath, or belong to a group of risk ”, indicates the general director of primary care, Antonio Alemany.

The symptoms of the flu are variable and are often difficult to differentiate from other infectious respiratory diseases, such as colds. Flu incubation period is one to two days and among the most common symptoms is the fever of more than 38 degrees with duration of 3 to 4 days, severe muscle pain and headache.

The Ministry advises, as a first measure against the flu, avoid sudden temperature changes, as well as in closed local agglomerations, take care of personal hygiene, not sharing items with other people who have been in contact with flu patients. In addition experts recommend keeping a balanced diet and take natural fruit rich in vitamin C.

In the event that a person from getting the flu, we recommend bed rest, drinking plenty of fluids, avoid the consumption of alcohol, tobacco and control fever with antipyretics.

Vaccination

The first step to avoid the flu is vaccination aimed at risk groups. In total this season, 913.261 Madrid been vaccinated is this year against seasonal flu during the campaign developed by the Ministry of health, which represents 1.5% more compared to last season.

Of these 6 months to 59 years: 237.563, between 60 and 64 years: 91.240 and 65 and older: 584.458. Altogether, the Ministry has invested 4.199.899 euros in the acquisition of 1.060.000 doses of vaccine in this campaign, and savings of 9.4% over the previous year.