RISE IN FLU-LIKE-ILLNESS – MHMS URGES PUBLIC VIGILANCE AND BASIC HYGIENE MEASURES
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services through its routine disease surveillance system, has recorded a significant and sustained rise in Influenza like Illness (ILI) cases, over the reporting period (24 August – 13 September 2026). MHMS is urging the public to remain vigilant and practice good hygiene and health safety measures.
National surveillance data has identified unusual increases of influenza-like illness (ILI) cases initially from surveillance sites in Honiara, Western and Malaita province in the previous two reporting weeks. Most recently in the last reporting week, other provincial surveillance sites in Central, Isabel and Makira have also reported increase in influenza-like illness (ILI) cases however several surveillance sites in Honiara have reported a decrease in the weekly number of cases. ILI is a syndrome that can be caused by several circulating respiratory viruses, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Laboratory testing conducted in July and August detected influenza A in a majority of samples tested; further testing is under way to confirm which viruses are contributing to the current increase.
Flu-like illnesses spread easily from person to person, particularly when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Common symptoms may include fever, dry cough, body aches, runny nose, and sore throat.
MHMS advises the public to:
- Practise good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
- Cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a tissue or into the elbow.
- Wear a surgical mask if you have fever, cough or acute respiratory illness.
- Avoid close contact with others when feeling unwell.
- Stay home and rest when experiencing flu-like symptoms, where possible.
- Drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables
- If experiencing fever, take Panadol as advise by a nurse or doctor or use sponge to help reduce fever
- Seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or if there are concerns about illness, particularly for young children, older people, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions.
- Maintain a clean environment by disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and improving indoor air circulation.
The MHMS encourages members of the public to remain vigilant and continue practising good respiratory hygiene to help reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
ENDS///