FLU VIRUS. Dr. Alisa Betina Lim, the chief resident of Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) - Department of Emergency Medicine, urges the public on Wednesday (Jan. 3, 2023) to wear face masks and practice proper hygiene to avoid getting flu viruses. She also reminded people not to lower their guard as mycoplasma pneumonia, most commonly known as 'walking pneumonia,' is present in the country. (Screengrab photo)
DAVAO CITY – A physician from the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) urged the public here Wednesday to wear face masks and practice proper hygiene to avoid contracting the flu virus.
In a virtual press briefing, Dr. Alisa Betina Lim, the chief resident of the SPMC-Department of Emergency Medicine, warned that mycoplasma pneumonia, also known as "walking pneumonia," is present in the country.
“Since it’s a respiratory symptom, and we can prevent it by wearing face masks, especially in crowded areas,” Lim said.
She clarified though that there is no reported case of mycoplasma pneumonia yet in the city.
Despite this, she reminded residents to remain vigilant against the ongoing threat to public health.
Lim noted that SPMC dealt with numerous emergency flu cases only last month, as December is considered a flu season.
She pointed out that proper handwashing and hygiene are necessary to prevent the spread of the virus.
Mycoplasma pneumonia is less severe compared to the typical pneumonia.
However, patients with underlying health conditions and weak immune systems may experience severe symptoms. (PNA)
