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By: The People News
Congo Town, Monrovia, — The Ministry of Health has issued a public health warning following a surge in seasonal flu cases across Liberia, with Montserrado County topping the list of reported infections.
The Ministry says health centers have recorded a growing number of patients showing flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, headaches, body pain, and fatigue.
Flu — short for influenza — is a contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that affect the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads easily when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or talk, releasing droplets into the air.
Dr. Catherine Thomas-Cooper, Liberia’s Chief Medical Officer, cautioned that certain groups are more vulnerable, including children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
She encouraged anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention and follow simple health precautions to curb the spread of the virus. These include wearing face masks in crowded places, washing hands frequently, staying home when unwell, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, disinfecting surfaces, and avoiding poorly ventilated spaces.
The Ministry noted that it has strengthened disease monitoring across hospitals and clinics, launched awareness campaigns nationwide, and is working with the Ministry of Education to reinforce health measures in schools.
Officials reassured the public that preventive efforts are ongoing and urged citizens to take the flu threat seriously by protecting themselves and those around them.
“The Ministry of Health remains committed to ensuring the wellbeing of every Liberian,” the statement concluded, calling for community cooperation in preventing further spread of the seasonal illness.
