Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Health Sciences Faculty academic staff and expert in community health, Assist. Prof. Dr. Levent Eker, released a statement regarding preventions to be taken to protect against contracting seasonal flu.
The influenza virus that leads to the flu illness is a contagious infection of the respiratory system that is widespread during the spring and winter seasons. Assist. Prof. Dr. Eker explained “Many people are effected, and it could lead to death for individuals with chronic illnesses, and it poses economic difficulties both on the individuals’ and states’ economy, so it is an important community health problem. The community should not confuse the flu illness with the common cold”.
“The Common Cold and the Influenza Virus are Different”
The common cold, which can be caused by 200 different viruses and the influenza virus that leads to the flu illness, should not be confused, as they have different characteristics advised Assist. Prof. Dr. Eker, who went on to say “The common cold can be viewed with symptoms such as a runny nose, blocked nose, sore throat, weakness and a small bout of high temperatures. Body temperature will generally be above 38 degrees. With the flu, you have all the above with additional higher temperatures, headache, cough and muscle pain. Flu symptoms will be at its strongest for 2-3 days, and will last for 7 days. Following this period, recovery will begin, however it could last up to 1-2 weeks. The flu virus can be caught by little droplets in the air, when a contaminated person talks, coughs or sneezes. It can also be caught by touching an infected person’s hand, talking in close proximity or kissing”.
How Can We Protect Ourselves?
Assist. Prof. Dr. Eker explained how people can protect themselves and those around them; “Infected individuals should not make physical contact with anyone. When they are sneezing or coughing, they should close their mouths and nose with a tissue, and immediately throw the tissue in the bin. They should avoid touching their infected eyes, nose and mouths with their hands and frequently thoroughly wash their hands with soapy water. Individuals who are unable to wash their hands fequently, should utilise disinfectant gels when necessary, clean frequently used chairs and table tops and avoid crowded areas as much as possible. Special attention should be given to diets, ensuring fresh fruit and vegetables are consumed, while drinking as much liquid as possible. Other than the medication prescribed by a doctor, no other medication should be consumed. Antibiotics do not treat the flu virus. Those whose health is mostly at risk when contracting the flu virus are pregnant females, or people who sufffer from chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension and KOAH. When symptoms begin, they should immediately consult a doctor”.
