The cough and flu in children at schools is not COVID-19, Health experts speak out

The flu, cough and symptoms that your child is experiencing is not COVID-19. According to the director of curative services in the Ministry of Health, Dr Olara Charles, the illness is due to weather changes. It is an influenza-like infection. It is influenza A or B, and not COVID-19.

Change in weather patterns is known to circulate various viruses. These viruses thrive more in cold than hot conditions, and thereby scale up viral infections. Droplets that come out of the mouth and nose through coughing and breathing tend to stay on surfaces longer. This is where they are picked up and people easily get infected by the virus through touch or inhalation.

Managing Colds

Dr Sabrina Kitaka, a senior paediatrician at Mulago hospital advises parents to stay calm and not excessively worried about the general viral infection.

She advises parents to avoid self-medication and consult a qualified health professional, preferably a paediatrician to treat and manage the symptoms.

Cough and flu are caused by a viral, not bacterial infection. The condition is managed by treating the symptoms like fever (high body temperature) and pain among others. The symptoms may be managed by pain relievers (paracetamol), multivitamins and lots of fluids. The children need to be well hydrated and keep warm to fight off the infection. The doctor may evaluate whether to add some antibiotics medication.

The illness may last for five to seven days and parents need to be extra patient as they look after the children. She said many parents are tempted to seek a magical treatment for their children to be better in 24 hours which is not the case for the progression of a viral infection.

Children who develop complications and deteriorate are the only ones who may be admitted to the hospital.

Weather conditions

The weather forecast for March to May released by the Ministry of Water and Environment last month indicated that the rainy season was expected in late February or early March. However, weather patterns in southern Africa disrupted the onset causing intermittent rains and dry spells.

Observing the Covid -19 SOPS

Dr Olaro admonished that despite the low cases of COVID-19, Ugandans should vigilantly continue observing the standard operating procedures (SOPs) – sanitizing hands, wearing masks and social distancing.

According to statistics from the Ministry of Health, about 11 and 32 cases have been reported in Uganda between March 7 and 13. Only two deaths were reported. The low numbers of infections and deaths do not mean that the disease has gone away and should therefore not be taken for granted. It still exists and people die from it.

The Government has not lifted SOPs and will only do so when the desired vaccination coverage has been achieved and scientifically backed.

The Minister of State for Education and Sports (Primary Education) Dr Joyce Kaducu Moriku, in a press statement today 17th March 2022, said that schools should seriously implement the SOPs. She warned against overcrowding and visitors at schools which will increase the spread. Sick children should be isolated and treated in sickbays.