The health system in Chile faces a new threat with the appearance of a bacteria that aggravates cases of influenza.
Given this situation, the Ministry of Health (Minsal) has instructed officials to be vigilant and early detect this superinfection, which can be fatal.
In recent weeks, cases of respiratory viruses have increased considerably in the country, with influenza predominating.
However, concern has intensified due to the presence of the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, known as the “killer bacteria.”
This bacteria was detected in the body of a 12-year-old girl who died last Friday at a medical center in Florida.
The Minsal has warned that this bacteria can aggravate cases of influenza, which have already shown a significant increase. Hospitalizations and emergency care due to respiratory viruses have reached 48.8%, according to the latest figures from the ministry.
Early detection is crucial to start appropriate treatment on time.
For this reason, the Minsal has implemented protocols so that cases are quickly reported to the Institute of Public Health (ISP) and the Seremi de Salud.
Statistics show an alarming trend. The emergency care curve in the Metropolitan Region, until week 23, reveals a clear difference between the years 2023 and 2024, with a notable increase between weeks 18 and 22 of this year.
Given this situation, health authorities have reiterated the importance of influenza vaccination and other preventive measures.
They have urged the population to be alert to symptoms and seek medical attention for any signs of complications.
In addition, communication campaigns have been reinforced to inform citizens about the risks of this bacteria and ways to prevent its spread.
Public health experts emphasize the need to maintain hygiene measures, such as frequent hand washing and wearing masks in crowded places.
The medical community is on high alert, working in a coordinated manner to confront this new threat.
It is hoped that, with the implementation of these measures and the collaboration of the population, the situation can be controlled and the impact of this bacteria on influenza cases can be reduced.
The Minsal has assured that it will continue to closely monitor the evolution of cases and adjust response strategies as necessary.
The priority is to protect the health of the population and avoid further human losses due to this dangerous combination of influenza and Streptococcus pyogenes.
