Expert explained: Are cases decreasing in the flu epidemic?

As temperatures drop across the country with the arrival of autumn, they also bring with them seasonal illnesses. While upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu increase in October, hospital admissions also increase. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Doğan, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Tekirdağ Namık Kemal University (NKU), stated that they observed a slowdown in hospital admissions, which had increased by approximately 20-25 percent, in October. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doğan said, "Seasonal changes and changes in air temperatures negatively affect people's immune systems, leading to a higher incidence of flu infections. At the beginning of October, there was an increase in the frequency of cases. There was an increase of approximately 20-25 percent in total applications. This was a rapid acceleration. Today, we observe a slowdown in this acceleration. Drops in air temperatures have increased the clustering of people in public areas. This can be considered a risk factor, the reopening of schools is a risk factor, and the use of public transportation services is a risk factor. These factors lead to the increased occurrence of respiratory and contact-borne illnesses. Consequently, we have seen more cases of flu infections."

"IT IS MORE SEVERE IN THOSE WITH CONCOMITANT DISEASES"

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doğan stated that influenza can be more severe in people with chronic illnesses, saying, "Influenza is particularly severe in those with comorbidities. We've had cases diagnosed with pneumonia, but these are generally groups with comorbidities. People with respiratory failure, heart failure, COPD, kidney failure, and diabetes can present with a more severe condition due to bacterial infection compounding the viral illness. Among these, some people with advanced respiratory failure have been admitted to intensive care. However, these are limited cases. We recommend that they consult a specialist at the onset of the illness, initiate antiviral treatment, and further reduce the severity of the illness with influenza vaccination during the seasonal transition period."

"WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THE FLU VACCINE TO PATIENTS IN THE RISK GROUP"

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doğan stated that they recommend the flu vaccine, especially for patients in at-risk groups, saying, "We recommend the flu vaccine this season, and we definitely recommend both the flu and pneumonia vaccines for patients in the risk groups I mentioned earlier. There's no specific age limit for the flu vaccine; it can be used in any age group. It's especially recommended for those with comorbidities. We recommend the flu vaccine for all age groups. It can be administered to anyone who isn't allergic to the flu vaccine, and even during pregnancy."

"PERSONS WITH FLU SHOULD USE A MASK"

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doğan also touched on precautions people can take against the disease, saying, "First and foremost, people with the flu should wear a mask and avoid entering public spaces unless absolutely necessary. Sneeze into the crook of your arm when sneezing or coughing to prevent the spread of the disease. Sick and infected individuals should also drink enough fluids to lessen the symptoms. They should pay attention to their sleep patterns, and warm baths are recommended. Additionally, consuming certain herbal products like turmeric and ginger, vitamin C, and seasonal fruits and vegetables like lemons and oranges can help alleviate symptoms."