NICD: Decline in Flu Cases and Recommendations for Prevention

According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), flu transmission is currently at a moderate level, and circulation is declining. The NICD relies on seasonal thresholds, which are based on historical data, to assess the rate of influenza transmission. Dr Sibongile Walaza, an epidemiologist at the NICD, explains that the activity has been fluctuating between low and moderate levels since week 17 as reported by Health-E-News.

As of June 18, 2023, the NICD’s surveillance program detected 828 flu cases, with 98% of cases being infected with the A(H3N2) strain. The Western Cape reported the highest number of cases (280), followed by Gauteng (225), North West (127), KwaZulu-Natal (90), Mpumalanga (65), Eastern Cape (37), and Limpopo and the Free State with 2 cases each.

Regarding hospitalisations, the NICD currently lacks available data on the number of people hospitalised due to the flu this season. Still, this information will be collected and made available at the end of the flu season. Regarding flu-related deaths, the average annual number ranges from 7,000 to 12,000, although data collection for 2023 is still ongoing.

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Dr Walaza emphasises the importance of getting the influenza vaccine to manage severe flu cases, particularly for individuals at higher risk of severe illness. This includes people with underlying conditions, individuals over 65 years of age, those living with HIV, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women. It is also recommended that sick individuals stay away from work as much as possible, practice social distancing, and avoid close contact with sick individuals.

Although there is no mandatory recommendation for wearing masks, individuals who perceive themselves at risk of severe flu-associated illnesses and complications may choose to wear masks, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces. The NICD continues to monitor the situation and provides ongoing guidance and updates to ensure public health and safety.

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