00:10Fever, sore throat, cough, body aches, and feeling drained all the time. If it feels
00:17like everybody around you is getting sick, you're not imagining it. We are entering
00:22flu season in Trinidad and Tobago. So tonight on House Call, let's discuss the symptoms
00:28you need to look out for, how you can protect yourself, and most importantly, when a flu-like
00:34illness needs medical attention. A flu-like illness can come on suddenly. Common symptoms
00:40include fever or chills, body aches or muscle aches, headaches, sore throat, cough, or extreme
00:48fatigue. Some people, particularly children, may develop diarrhea and vomiting, and importantly,
00:56not everybody would develop a fever. So what can you do at home? For most otherwise
01:02healthy people with mild illness, treatment is supportive. Rest, drink lots of fluids, stay
01:10hydrated, take appropriate medications for fever and body aches, such as acetaminophen,
01:17which is panadol or paracetamol, or NSAIDs like ibuprofen, once not allergic.
01:22And how can you protect yourself? Wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your eyes,
01:29nose, or mouth, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoid contact with persons who
01:36are unwell. Improving ventilation and wearing a mask, particularly when you're sick, can reduce
01:43the risk of transmission. And don't forget your annual influenza vaccine, particularly if you're
01:50high risk of complications. So who's at risk? While anyone can become seriously ill, we pay particular
01:58attention to children under the age of 5, adults older than 65, pregnant women, people with asthma,
02:06diabetes or heart disease, and chronic illnesses. People who are immunocompromised are also high risk.
02:14And when should you see a doctor? Most viral illnesses improve with time and supportive care,
02:21but there are warning signs that you should look out for. Seek medical attention if you develop shortness
02:27of breath or difficulty breathing, chest pain or tightness, confusion, persistent vomiting or diarrhea,
02:36difficulty eating or drinking, or if your symptoms are not getting better and are getting worse.
02:43And if you're part of the high risk groups, contact your healthcare provider before becoming seriously ill.
02:50Most flu-like illnesses will get better with rest, hydration, supportive care, and time. But pay
02:58attention to what your body is telling you. Stay hydrated, protect yourself, protect the vulnerable
03:04groups around you, and seek medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing or your condition
03:11and get worse. It's Dr. Mariana Brown for TV6 Housecore.
03:15Be very happy.
03:22You
