Expert warns of new flu wave, urges swift action
Dr Jack Githae is a renowned natural medicine practitioner, researcher and consultant. Photo/James Murimi
A renowned natural medicine practitioner has raised concern over a new strain of flu currently spreading rapidly across Kenya.
According to Dr Jack Githae, who is also a researcher and consultant, the flu presents symptoms strikingly similar to those of Covid-19 and could pose serious health risks, particularly to the elderly and young children.
"It's true there is a flu going viral, and from my own observation, it's dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations," Dr Githae said.
"If one catches a cold, it must be treated promptly. If left unattended, it can mutate into pneumonia, which is far more dangerous."
Dr Githae advises those experiencing symptoms to stay warm, drink hot water regularly, and seek immediate medical attention.
Key symptoms of the flu include sneezing, coughing, excessive nasal discharge, chest pains, and congestion. These are often accompanied by fever, profuse sweating, and chills.
The practitioner called on the Ministry of Health to urgently investigate the current wave of infections.
"The Ministry should conduct thorough laboratory tests and, if their findings confirm Covid-19-like effects, introduce appropriate measures to curb the spread," he said.
Dr Githae emphasized the need for public health advisories to guide citizens on prevention, management, and treatment, including the use of available conventional and herbal remedies.
Drawing from his extensive experience treating Covid-19 cases across the country, Dr Githae stressed the importance of early intervention.
"The earlier this condition is treated, the better. Delay increases the risk of developing pneumonia," he warned.
Beyond the immediate threat, Dr Githae urged the government to promote African traditional medicine as a complementary healthcare option.
He highlighted that many patients seek natural remedies for conditions that lack definitive cures in conventional medicine.
“There are conditions that do not have a cure within conventional medical delivery systems, and that is why people turn to us for treatment. It works,” Dr Githae stated.
