Hospitals in Guatemala City are reporting a significant rise in hospitalizations due to respiratory illnesses, including influenza A, according to a recent report.
The Roosevelt Hospital, San Juan de Dios Hospital, and the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) have all seen an increase in patients requiring hospitalization for respiratory issues. Ricardo Menéndez, head of Pediatric Emergency at Roosevelt Hospital, noted that although cases of asthma and allergic bronchitis were common in December, there has been a more than 50% increase in influenza A cases since the beginning of February.
This surge in respiratory illnesses comes as health officials emphasize the importance of preventative measures. A recent epidemiological alert from the Pan American Health Organization (OPS) highlighted that a combination of vaccination, surveillance, hospital preparedness, timely diagnosis and treatment, and personal preventative measures will be crucial to reducing the burden of disease and protecting vulnerable populations. The alert too warned of the potential for healthcare systems to become overwhelmed.
The H3N2 strain of influenza A is considered one of the most intense forms of the virus, and has been responsible for some of the major influenza pandemics recorded in the last century, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NIH).
Internist Aldrin Aroche explained that the virus, associated with respiratory infections with flu-like symptoms, “feels like a strong flu, although different viruses are currently circulating.”
Symptoms of the illness include fever, body aches, sore throat, dry cough, and nasal congestion. Potential complications can include the development of pneumonia, leading to decreased oxygen levels and chest pain.
Aroche stressed the importance of adhering to vaccination schedules for both children and adults to decrease the likelihood of infection.
Symptoms of the K (H3N2) Flu
The most frequent symptoms include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort, such as diarrhea or abdominal pain
- Sudden onset of high fever
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Intense muscle pain
- Extreme fatigue
Recommendations to Prevent Infection
- Vaccination is one of the most effective strategies, as it reduces complications.
- Maintain active epidemiological surveillance.
- Seek immediate medical attention for severe respiratory symptoms.
- Wash hands frequently.
- Maintain a balanced diet.
Prevention and Treatment
When a child contracts influenza, antibiotics are not always necessary, as We see a viral infection. General management includes rest, hydration, and fever control with antipyretics recommended by a healthcare professional, explained pediatrician Mara Chuta in an interview with Prensa Libre.
In high-risk cases—such as infants under six months, older adults, or people with chronic illnesses (asthma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney or liver conditions)—the antiviral oseltamivir may be considered, ideally within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. This medication can reduce the duration of the illness, the risk of complications, and the risk of hospitalization.
Annual vaccination is the most important preventative measure. While it doesn’t necessarily prevent infection, it does decrease the severity of symptoms and reduce the risk of serious complications. It is recommended for individuals six months of age and older. For children over three years old, an annual dose is administered due to the constant evolution of the virus, the specialist added.
Warning Signs in Children
Parents should seek immediate medical attention if a child presents with:
- Uncontrollable fever
- Persistent cough that makes breathing difficult
- Difficulty breathing, with intercostal retractions or chest sinking
- Inability to ingest liquids or maintain hydration
- Altered state of consciousness, such as extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking up
