40,000 East Java Residents Infected by Influenza A Outbreak, Here is the Current Situation
Cases of Influenza A infection are currently experiencing a surge in East Java. The Surabaya Health Office (Dinkes) recorded that more than 40,000 residents have been exposed between January and August.
The Head of the Surabaya Health Office, Dr Billy Messakh, revealed that these numbers have seen a further increase during the August to September period. “The increase, looking at the figures, is around 10% and the nature of the illness is mild. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, and coughing, which are more characteristic of Influenza A. That is what is occurring,” said Dr Billy.
Meanwhile, the Vice Governor of East Java, Emil Dardak, ensured that, as of now, there have been no reports of hospitals reaching full capacity due to the surge. Local health services have been placed on alert to anticipate any potential spike in cases. “As of today, no hospital has reported being overwhelmed to the point of having to refuse patients. Not yet. But we are monitoring the situation, and if anyone has information, please do not hesitate to inform us,” he stated.
The Indonesian Ministry of Health has revealed that the Influenza A H3N2 sub-type, subclade K, has been detected in 13 provinces across Indonesia so far.
According to medical resources, Influenza A is a common type of flu but can trigger serious complications if not treated properly, particularly in vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses. Transmission occurs through droplets (saliva particles) from an infected person when coughing, sneezing, or talking. These droplets can be inhaled by others or settle on surfaces near the infected person. The risk of transmission increases in densely populated environments or for those with poor personal hygiene.
Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment of Influenza A
Symptoms of Influenza A usually appear suddenly and include high fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, and extreme lethargy.
Primary prevention can be achieved through regular handwashing with soap and running water. Additionally, individuals feeling unwell or those in public spaces are advised to wear masks. A healthy lifestyle should also be maintained, ranging from consuming nutritious food to getting sufficient rest. Regarding treatment, management varies depending on the severity of the symptoms:
In mild cases, patients are advised to increase rest, ensure adequate fluid intake (at least 8 glasses a day), and take fever-reducing medication if necessary.
If symptoms worsen, are accompanied by shortness of breath, or if a high fever does not subside despite medication, sufferers must consult a doctor immediately.
Differences Between Influenza A and the Common Cold
Based on explanations from Mitra Keluarga Hospital, the common cold can be triggered by more than 200 types of viruses, with rhinovirus being the most common cause. This virus is transmitted through the air and close contact.
In contrast, Influenza A originates from specific virus types (such as H1N1 or its mutations). Although initial symptoms are quite similar to the common cold, the two have different characteristics:
Common Cold: Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion or a runny nose, mild sore throat, cough, watery eyes, post-nasal drip, mild headache, and slight body aches. These symptoms usually last up to two weeks and rarely trigger serious health problems.
Influenza A: Symptoms develop much faster and feel much more severe. This disease carries a high risk of triggering serious complications, such as pneumonia, especially in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.