It's time for a flu shot

The fall and winter months are among the critical periods when infectious diseases increase. Personal precautions taken against respiratory infections during this period significantly reduce the risk. Dr. Hüsrev Diktaş, an Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialist at Medipol Health Group, stated, "Respiratory infections increase rapidly in the fall. Protective measures must be taken during this period," and issued warnings, particularly to those in at-risk groups.

CHILDREN AND ELDERLY PEOPLE ARE AT RISK Assoc . Prof. Dr. Diktaş emphasized the importance of protective measures, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, saying, "Children, individuals over the age of 55, and patients with suppressed immune systems are particularly at greater risk. The risk of contracting infections increases in individuals undergoing cancer treatment, taking medications for rheumatological diseases, or receiving immunosuppressive treatments. Therefore, we should not neglect protective measures."

USE A MASKS Assoc. Prof. Dr. Diktaş emphasized the importance of hygiene when using masks and other personal items, saying, "Contaminated masks should be replaced immediately. These seemingly simple measures will help us get through the fall and winter months more healthily. Sick people should definitely use a mask."

HAND HYGIENE AND VENTILATION ARE ESSENTIAL Assoc. Prof. Dr. Diktaş also touched on the importance of hand hygiene, saying, "Hand hygiene is more critical than ever. Hands must be washed frequently. The environment we are in also needs to be ventilated frequently."

RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS ARE INCREASING Stressing that flu and cold cases are increasing, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Diktaş said, "It's time to get the flu vaccine. The pneumonia vaccine and RSV vaccine are also very important for those in at-risk groups. These vaccines protect especially older individuals against serious respiratory infections."

WHO SHOULD GET THE FLU VACCINE ? The flu vaccine helps protect patients, particularly against the development of pneumonia. The vaccine is produced based on the viruses that caused the flu last year and includes the three viruses predicted by the World Health Organization to cause this year's flu. The same vaccine is used worldwide. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Diktaş listed who should receive the flu vaccine regularly as follows:

People aged 65 and over

Those with chronic lung diseases (COPD, bronchiectasis, bronchial asthma, cardiovascular disease). People with diabetes, kidney dysfunction and immunosuppression. Physicians, nurses and allied health personnel who may encounter high-risk patients. Those who live with people at risk for flu (those who have close and constant contact with babies under six months old) People who provide community services such as security guards and firefighters. Those who are pregnant during flu season.