Ministry of Public Health urges precaution against viral respiratory infections during winter

Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), i...

Doha, Qatar: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), is urging community members to take the necessary precautions against viral respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as the winter season is now underway.

Dr Hamad Al Romaihi, Director of the Health Protection and Communicable Diseases Control Department at the Ministry of Public Health, stressed the importance of preventive measures, stating, “As the weather cools and respiratory viruses spread quickly and more easily, it’s vital that people act to reduce their risk of infection.”

Dr Al Romaihi noted that while anyone can contract influenza or RSV, certain groups are at greater risk of severe illness from these viruses. These groups include individuals aged 50 and above, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, and children under five years old.

Symptoms of influenza and RSV can be very similar, including fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches, headaches, and occasionally shortness of breath. Dr Al Romaihi advised individuals experiencing these symptoms to stay home to prevent spreading the infection to others. He also urged those with more severe symptoms to seek medical care at their primary healthcare centre, as early treatment is crucial, especially for those at higher risk.

Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Head of the Infectious Diseases Division at HMC, outlined simple preventive measures, stating, “The flu and RSV spread in similar ways, through respiratory secretions and contaminated hands and surfaces. Therefore, it is vital to maintain good hygiene, avoid close contact with sick individuals, wash or sanitise hands regularly, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and get vaccinated. For people at higher risk of severe illness caused by these viruses, wearing masks in crowded places may also be necessary.”