Flu cases on the rise, emergency rooms see increased density

Warnings have been issued regarding an increase in upper respiratory tract infections as the weather cools and schools open. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Doğan, a faculty member in the Department of Infectious Diseases at Tekirdağ Namık Kemal University (NKÜ) Faculty of Medicine, stated that the rise in flu cases has begun to reflect in emergency departments.

Doğan noted a visible increase in patient density in emergency rooms, saying, "We are at the initial stage of this density. We can say that the current visible density is around 10-15 percent. However, we expect this figure to rise if it is not brought under control."

Pointing out that children come together more frequently in closed and crowded environments such as school buses, classrooms, cafeterias, and canteens with the opening of schools, Doğan stated that an infected child can easily transmit the virus to other students.

Doğan emphasized that children who are coughing or sneezing should, if possible, rest at home for a few days. Recommending mask use for children who must attend school, Doğan stated that taking personal protective measures while sneezing and coughing would reduce transmission.

Stating that the primary goal in flu management is to prevent the spread of the disease, Doğan called for flu vaccinations, especially for children with weak immune systems and individuals at risk of severe illness. "We are currently in the vaccination period; we are in the appropriate season for the flu vaccine," said Doğan, warning that in individuals who are not vaccinated or who underestimate the illness, the infection can turn into more serious conditions such as pneumonia.

Doğan stated that in cases where fever does not subside, coughing increases, or phlegm or secretions are added, one should apply to a healthcare facility without delay, while pointing out the importance of basic care and rest at home for patients with mild symptoms.

Doğan also reminded that children can carry the virus they catch at school to their relatives at home, such as mothers, fathers, grandmothers, and grandfathers. He said that the disease can progress severely in individuals with risk factors such as heart failure, kidney disease, hypertension, diabetes, or cancer.

Recommending that contact with people showing symptoms within the home be reduced, Doğan stated that if possible, time should be spent in different rooms and a distance of "more than 1 meter" should be maintained. Emphasizing that hand hygiene is also critical, Doğan stated that hands must be washed after coughing or sneezing.

News Source: 12punto