Although the flu disease is mild in many people, it can progress to the lower respiratory tract and cause bronchitis and pneumonia. In recent years, we have observed that the flu disease causes lower respiratory tract infections more often, makes coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing and joint pains more severe. In this way, as a result of the severe passing of the flu disease, the patients' defense system weakens, resulting in difficult-to-treat bacterial infections. the fact that there were a large number of deaths during the swine flu epidemic in 2009 shows the importance of this issue.

First of all, we find it useful to remind you that it is important to get the flu vaccine as a prevention measure against the flu  disease, which can cause bronchitis and pneumonia and even be fatal. Especially people over the age of 65, those with diabetes, asthma, chronic lung disease, cardiovascular system diseases, those with a weak immune system other than chronic disease (cancer, undergoing chemotherapy, etc.), People who live in crowded places such as nursing homes, frequent travelers, and people who want to be protected from the medical negativity of the flu should definitely get the flu vaccine. October November months should be preferred as the time of flu vaccination. People who are not vaccinated can be vaccinated until the end of March. The protection of the vaccine lasts about 6-8 months.

Other measures needed to protect against the disease should be kept away from crowded and closed environments as much as possible during the flu season, try not to contact sick people, hug and shake hands, hands should be washed frequently and personal hygiene rulers  should be observed.

Antibiotics should not be used without the necessary blood tests unless the doctor deems it necessary. Since it is known that effective drugs for viruses (antivirals) are more effective when started within 48 hours after the onset of the disease, patients with excessive complaints should contact the relevant medical institutions without wasting time.

People with the flu should take plenty of fluids (1.5-2 lt), rest for enough time, pay attention to their nutrition, and take care of their sleep patterns.

Specialist . Dr. Ali Reza Orhan

Internal Medicine (Internal Diseases)

Specialist. Dr. Ali Rıza Orhan

internal medicine