Influenza outbreak continues: Experts issue mask warning against the epidemic!

Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Özkan Akyol drew attention to the importance of mask usage due to increasing illnesses. 

Following the ongoing outbreaks in recent years, masks have become a part of daily life. While wearing masks was mandatory worldwide during the first year when COVID-19 became widespread, usage later became more flexible and was left to individual preference. 

However, experts are currently emphasizing the importance of wearing masks to protect against illness, noting an increase in H1N1, one of the influenza viruses, in addition to COVID-19.

MASK CALL FOR THOSE IN THE HIGH-RISK GROUP

Issuing warnings on the subject, Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Özkan Akyol said, “Epidemic diseases have been in our lives for years, but they were not previously as highly contagious or as debilitating. Some seasonal illnesses that should have started earlier peaked in December, based on the cases we observed and treated. 

Those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, pregnant women, and children under 3 years old are in the high-risk group for the transmission of these diseases. Another flu risk group consists of people who have not had a flu shot. People who have not yet caught the flu can get vaccinated and must wear masks; they should avoid entering the same environment as those showing symptoms,” he said.

CHILDREN SHOULD ALSO WEAR THEM TO PROTECT AGAINST THE OUTBREAK 

Stating that there is currently an outbreak of H1N1, one of the influenza viruses, Specialist Dr. Akyol said, “Those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, pregnant women, and children under 3 years old are in the high-risk group for the transmission of these diseases. 

For this reason, those who have not yet caught the flu, especially those in the risk group, can get vaccinated and must wear masks,” he stated.

News Source: İHA