Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Specialist Prof. Dr. Hakan Leblebicioğlu gave information about the triple epidemic. Emphasizing that the duration of the disease may be prolonged, especially in elderly people or people with weak immune systems, Prof. Dr. “In addition, the risk of consecutive infections with more than one virus is high, and in some cases, viral infections may be accompanied by bacterial infections (superinfection),” Leblebicioğlu said.
PROFESSOR WARNED! “HOSPITAL APPLICATIONS INCREASED”
Prof. said that Covid-19 is an infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is still effective. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said, “Although there is limited access to tests, hospital admissions appear to be increasing. Covid-19 symptoms often include fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of taste/sense. Social distancing, wearing masks and hygiene measures are important to prevent the spread of infection. “In addition, the Covid-19 vaccine may help reduce the severity of the disease,” he said.
“THE DANGER OF SEASONAL FLU IS INCREASING WITH THE NEW VARIANT OF H1N1 TYPE A”
Stating that seasonal flu has become effective again with different variants of types A and B, Prof. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said, “Especially a new variant of H1N1 Type A increases hospital admissions in the elderly and young children. Flu symptoms usually appear 2-3 days after infection and continue for 5-7 days. Symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, weakness and body aches are observed. Patients typically feel beaten due to widespread muscle and joint pain. By using antiviral drugs (oseltamivir) in the early stages, the duration of the disease can be shortened and recovery can be accelerated. “The flu vaccine is also effective in preventing serious symptoms.”
“BEWARE OF THE SYMPTOMS OF COUGH, SHORTNESS OF BREATH AND WEAKNESS”
Stating that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a virus that causes respiratory diseases such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, Prof. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said: “It is one of the main reasons for hospital admissions, especially in children, but it can also seriously affect the elderly and adults with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of RSV include cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, fever, and fatigue. Supportive treatments are applied to reduce symptoms in RSV disease. Patients showing symptoms of flu infection should rest and drink plenty of water. The room they are in should be ventilated and the room air should not be dry. As supportive treatment, antipyretic drugs (acetominophen), nasal decongestants and cough suppressants can be used for those suffering from dry cough. “A health institution should be consulted, especially in case of fever above 38 degrees, difficulty in breathing and prolonged symptoms.”
“THESE PRECAUTIONS ARE A MUST IN COLD WEATHER”
Referring to the importance of taking necessary precautions to protect against infectious diseases, Prof. Dr. Leblebicioğlu said, “In this period when people are more indoors due to cold weather, it is important to stay at home if you are sick, wash your hands frequently, use paper tissues or cough into your elbow, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Mask should be worn in crowded environments. “Also, you should not forget to get vaccinated against infections such as Covid-19 and flu.” (UAV)