The flu epidemic shows no signs of abating, with hospitals and even crematoriums experiencing unprecedented crowding.
Health experts strongly urge the public to get vaccinated against the flu, wear masks, and seek immediate medical attention for flu testing and treatment if they experience symptoms such as muscle pain, headaches, or particularly fever.
Dr. Shin Sang Yop, a research fellow at the Korea Medical Institute (KMI), noted that the current flu outbreak is causing restrictions on crematorium usage similar to those seen during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic when the government had to issue administrative orders due to overwhelmed facilities.
Dr. Shin emphasized the critical nature of flu treatment timing, stating that the virus can devastate the respiratory defense barrier within 48 hours. He stressed that administering antiviral medication within this window is crucial to preserving respiratory protection.
He further explained that antiviral and antibiotic treatments become necessary if bacteria breach this initial defense and cause bacterial pneumonia. He warned that the most severe cases often involve sepsis, a systemic inflammatory response that elevates body temperature, breathing rate, and pulse while compromising blood pressure and organ function.
Dr. Shin stated that hospitalization and intensive care are essential for survival in such cases.
He described flu symptoms and noted that, unlike the common cold, flu often strikes suddenly. He explained that a person might feel fine one moment and then experience severe headaches, muscle pain, and high fever the next. He added that fatigue and body aches typically precede fever and advised that if these symptoms, especially fever, occur, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial.
Regarding the duration of the outbreak, Dr. Shin cautioned that while a peak has been reached and a slight lull is observed, the reopening of schools could trigger a resurgence of new viral strains. He noted that previous outbreaks lasted up to 22 months, making it premature to let down our guard before at least March or April.
Dr. Shin urged individuals eligible for the flu vaccine who have not yet received it to do so immediately. He also recommended getting the pneumococcal vaccine to help prevent bacterial pneumonia.
He warned that even healthy individuals should seek medical care at the first sign of cold-like symptoms. While early antiviral intervention makes the flu treatable, neglected cases can become life-threatening.
Dr. Shin concluded by emphasizing basic preventive measures. He advised wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, following proper cough etiquette, and ensuring good ventilation. He noted that correct mask usage alone can prevent up to 90% of respiratory infections. He added that a standard FDA-approved mask is sufficient for most healthy people and that N95-equivalent masks are not necessary for everyday use.
