Here Are Some Tips to Help Prevent the Flu

Flu that usually passes in 1-2 weeks with bed rest and plenty of fluids can cause life-threatening complications in children, elderly and immunocompromised individuals if left unattended. Prof. Dr. Erol Selimoğlu from the Otolaryngology Department at G. Memorial Ataşehir Hospital shared important information about flu disease and preventive measures to be taken. Flu is caused by a virus called influenza. It can be difficult to distinguish between flu and the common cold in the early stages. Generally, 2 days after exposure to the influenza virus, symptoms such as high fever, nasal discharge, cough, sore throat, muscle and headache, burning, tearing and redness in the eyes appear. In children, these symptoms may be accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In cases of rapid breathing, chest pain, dizziness, confusion, excessive vomiting, discoloration, high fever and rashes, insufficient fluid intake, a doctor should be consulted without delay.

Protect Yourself Before Flu Arrives

Flu virus is typically spread through coughing and sneezing or contact with contaminated surfaces. A single sneeze can release nearly half a million viral particles. To protect against flu outbreaks:

1. Flu vaccination is recommended from 6-month-old babies to elderly individuals.
2. Frequent handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizing solutions is among the most important preventive measures against flu.
3. Surgical masks can be used in high-risk areas.
4. Close contact with sick people should be avoided.
5. Handshaking should be avoided unless necessary.
6. Smoking not only causes serious illnesses but also increases the risk of exposure to influenza.
7. Extra caution should be exercised in crowded places such as schools, public transport vehicles, cinemas, theaters and mosques.
8. Simple personal habits such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing can help prevent disease transmission.
9. The spread rate of flu can be reduced by ensuring that sick people around you get adequate rest.
10. To strengthen the immune system, attention should be paid to healthy nutrition and consumption of foods rich in antioxidants.

Do Not Take Medication Without Consulting a Doctor

Bed rest and plenty of fluid intake are first-line treatments for flu. Alcohol and tobacco should be avoided. If necessary, painkillers and fever-reducing medications may be used to alleviate complaints caused by the illness. Aspirin should not be used in children and young patients in their developmental period, particularly during febrile episodes. Aspirin use in this group of patients can lead to different and more serious complications. Since flu is caused by a virus, antibiotics are ineffective. However, antibiotics may be used when there is a secondary infection such as bacterial lung disease. Antiviral therapy can be effective, particularly if given within the first 48 hours. Most flu patients recover within 1-2 weeks. However, since life-threatening complications such as pneumonia can sometimes develop, all medications should be used only after consulting a specialist doctor. People over 65 years of age, pregnant women, very young children and those with chronic illnesses experience flu complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis and ear infections more frequently. Therefore, extra caution should be exercised in these patient groups.