Lab tests confirm it’s flu, not Covid

Emmanuel Kafe

STUDIES by the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) have conclusively identified the severe flu strain circulating in the country as a particularly potent variant of the influenza virus.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care, as part of its regular disease surveillance, conducted laboratory tests on the flu variant, which have confirmed no relation with the coronavirus, alleviating concerns of a Covid-19 resurgence.

The severe flu bug, which has been circulating since the onset of the winter season, has led to widespread speculation about a potential resurgence of Covid-19.

In an interview, Public Health Adviser to the President, Dr Agnes Mahomva, said: “This is not a resurgence of Covid-19.

“A few weeks ago, the National Microbiology Laboratory confirmed that this was an ordinary flu that happens to be causing severe flu symptoms.

“There is, therefore, no need to panic. Instead, we all need to remain vigilant and protect ourselves through good hygiene as we did during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The Government, said Dr Mahomva, continued to undertake routine disease surveillance for the flu and other diseases of national concern.

Results of the surveillance are regularly shared by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, she said.

“Government is focused on providing information on flu-like illnesses and how they can be prevented and managed,” she said.

“Most flu-like illnesses are usually managed at home, through supportive treatment, using over-the-counter medicines for the common flu symptoms such as fever, cough and body aches and pains.

“Note, however, that symptoms can get worse very quickly, especially in the elderly and the very young, who might end up requiring hospital management.

“Government, therefore, continues to advise all citizens to take appropriate steps to protect themselves through good hygiene, washing of hands and staying away from crowded places in order to avoid contracting flu if you do not have it or in order to avoid passing it on if you have it.”

Dr Mahomwa said flu was a viral infection and those affected usually needed nothing more than rest at home, whilst taking plenty of fluids and over-the-counter medicines such as cough mixtures to manage the symptoms.

“If one, however, ends up with a superimposed bacterial infection or other complications, one must then seek medical attention from their nearest healthcare worker for appropriate treatment,” she said.