During the past weeks, influenza cases in Puerto Rico have increased. The weekly number of influenza cases in recent weeks has exceeded previous average weekly values for the same periods. The most recent influenza watch report  shows a total of 702 influenza cases reported between November 13th and November 19th. The average values for the same weekly period in previous years have not exceeded 400.

In reaction to these recent numbers, Ana Ríus Armendáriz, the Secretary of Health of Puerto Rico, has stated that Puerto Ricans can’t let their guard down regarding influenza prevention, and that necessary measures have to be taken to prevent infection, according to El Nuevo Día. Ríus also mentioned that the recommended method to prevent influenza is vaccination, as well as covering one’s nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding hand-to-hand contact.

The Department of Health of Puerto Rico informs that common influenza symptoms are fever/goosebumps, coughing, throat ache, runny nose, muscular and body ache, headaches, and fatigue. Symptoms that are more common among children include vomit and diarrhea.