Influenza type A and B in schools
The Ministry of Health has pinned increasing cases of flu among learners in schools to an outbreak of the seasonal Influenza Type-A and Type-B.
In the past one month, schools have registered a sharp rise in flu infections leading many to believe that another strain of Covid 19 has attacked schools. The learners presented with symptoms like , headache, fever, flu, joint pain among others.
Last week, the Ministry of health was compelled to take samples from infected learners in various schools to aid in investigating the out break.
Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, the Director Public Health and Incident Commander said then that samples had been taken off from children and a detailed statement about their findings and how well to be treated will soon be released.
In a joint communication from the Ministries of Health and Education released today, it has been confirmed that schools are faced with an outbreak of the seasonal Influenza Type-A and Type-B, and not COVID-19.
Influenza type A and B in schools
According to the State Minister for Primary Education Joyce Morikhu Kaducu, samples the Ministry of Health took samples from 198 out of 431 learners in Wakiso following fears that Covid 19 had infected them.
Moriku says the learners who presented with symptoms similar to that of Covid 19 were tested but none tested positive. She adds that only 58 samples tested positive for influenza A and 2 tested positive for influenza B.
“The samples all turned out negative for COVID 19, out of 198 oropharyngeal samples tested for SARS COV 2, the virus that causes covid 19 between 22 and 27 February 2022 . There will be no learning institution closure recommendation to prevent flu transmission. However, in extreme circumstances, this will be considered after consultations,” she said.
Kadudu says learners had no covid 19 like symptoms like breathing difficulty, loss of smell and taste among others . She says the flu has affected mostly the younger learners in Primary and Nursery sections presenting with mild or moderate symptoms.
Kaducu says this type of flu is neither unique or new to the MOH, She explains that over the years Influenza A usually presents in a pattern between February and March annually.
Available data from MOH says the pick of the clusters has not been superseded.
Both Ministries have asked learners and school heads to ensure strict adherence to standard operating procedures , report any cases early and follow up of cases. They have also advised schools to isolate patients in sick bays without overcrowding , utilize double swift systems and keep children hydrated.
Compiled by Minah Nalule
