A further 272 cases were reported at Lemkari Health post in Maliana, most of them in stable condition.

“The high number of patients is the result of seasonal change with wind and cooler weather adding to the burden,” Bairo Pite Executive Director Inacio dos Santos told reporters on Thursday, adding that the patient numbers could climb.

Most of the patients have underlying conditions that caused the virus, he said. These include common cold, ear infection, pneumonia, and bronchitis.

Acute respiratory illness is a very common illness that usually has a minor impact.

However, there can be serious and sometimes fatal outcomes for children, older adults and people with immune system disorders.

Medical authorities encourage people to practice good hygiene including washing hands, getting a flu vaccine, having plenty of vitamin C in the diet and avoiding cigarette smoking to evade infection.