The Ministry of Health of the Canary Islands Government reminds of the importance of using a surgical mask for all those who present flu-like symptoms, with the aim of preventing the transmission of the disease and reducing the risk of contagion, especially to the most vulnerable population.
In this regard, and taking into account that we are in a period of family reunions, which mostly take place in enclosed spaces, it is recommended that people who present symptoms such as cough, fever, general malaise, sore throat, congestion, and runny nose, among others, wear a mask to prevent virus transmission
In case of flu-like symptoms, in addition to wearing a mask, it is recommended:
· Increase ventilation in rooms· Wash hands frequently, especially after blowing your nose or coughing
· Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing with your arm or a tissue.
· Use disposable tissues, throwing them away after each use.· Avoid very close contact with vulnerable people· Do not share glasses, cutlery, towels, and other objects that may have been in contact with saliva or secretions
Recommendations in the healthcare sector
The use of surgical masks is also recommended for all individuals, including healthcare personnel, patients, and visitors, in vulnerable areas of healthcare facilities such as chemotherapy treatment rooms, transplant units, emergency rooms, and ICUs.
Vaccination Recommendation
The seasonal flu vaccination campaign has increased by 14.94 percent compared to the same period in 2024, according to data from the Directorate General of Public Health of the Canary Islands Health Service (SCS).In total, 246,194 people have been vaccinated, of which 11,612 doses were administered in the last week, representing an increase of 40.5 percent compared to the same week in 2024The Directorate-General for Public Health also recalls the importance of vaccination as the main tool to prevent complications in case of contagion
Incidence of influenza in the Canary Islands
According to the acute respiratory infection (ARI) surveillance report in the Canary Islands prepared by the General Directorate of Public Health of the SCS for the week of December 8-14, published last Friday, the incidence rate of influenza is 151.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, placing the Canary Islands in scenario 1, moderate risk. However, the data indicate that we are in a period of ascent close to scenario 2, so it is important that both the healthcare system and the population take simple but effective protective measures, such as wearing a mask when experiencing flu symptoms.