In her statement, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suna Seçil Öztürk Deniz, a faculty member of the Department of Infectious Diseases at PAU Hospitals, said:

“With colder weather, an increase is being observed in upper respiratory tract infections and seasonal influenza cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health recommend annual flu vaccination for high-risk groups, particularly healthcare professionals, as well as people with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, young children and older adults.

Vaccination helps protect against influenza, reduce its spread and prevent the development of serious complications that can be life-threatening, particularly in high-risk groups.

Seasonal influenza is an acute infection caused by influenza A and B viruses and can be transmitted through the respiratory route. Common symptoms include sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, headache, muscle and joint pain, and pronounced fatigue. Although most people recover from the illness within approximately one week, it can be severe in older adults, young children, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses and those with weakened immune systems.

When flu symptoms appear, it is important to rest, drink sufficient fluids and seek support from healthcare professionals when necessary. People in high-risk groups and those experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention without delay. Anyone experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, changes in consciousness or a significant deterioration in their general condition should seek urgent medical assistance.

Antiviral treatment may be administered to patients when deemed necessary by a physician; it is important to start this treatment early. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses and are not routinely used to treat influenza. Medications should be used in accordance with a physician’s advice.”

“What should we pay attention to in order to protect ourselves against the flu?”

Emphasising the importance of people in high-risk groups receiving the seasonal flu vaccine every year in accordance with their physicians’ recommendations, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suna Seçil Öztürk Deniz continued:

“Vaccination of healthcare professionals also helps protect both themselves and the people they care for. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and use an appropriate hand sanitiser when necessary. Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when coughing or sneezing; if no tissue is available, use the inside of your elbow. Avoid spending long periods in crowded and poorly ventilated places, and ventilate crowded indoor spaces frequently.

Stay at home as much as possible. When you need to be in the same environment as others, wear a mask and reduce close contact. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet and drink sufficient fluids.

To protect public and patient health and ensure patient safety, we invite all citizens and healthcare professionals to act responsibly and raise awareness about seasonal influenza, pay attention to hand hygiene as one of the basic methods of protection, follow respiratory hygiene rules such as wearing masks and maintaining physical distance, and receive the recommended vaccinations.”