Flu Vaccine Warning from Experts: "Now is the Time for Vaccination"

With the opening of schools and the weather getting colder, we have entered a critical period in which flu, cold and respiratory infections are expected to increase.

Experts warned citizens against viral infections that are expected to increase until January and February. Medical Park Karadeniz Hospital Chest Diseases Specialist Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü stated that October is the right time to get a flu vaccine and explained the methods of protection.

"CASES WILL INCREASE UNTIL JANUARY AND FEBRUARY"

Emphasizing that the flu season is at the doorstep and that cases can easily be transmitted to adults through children, Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü used the following statements:

"We are now entering the month of October. With the opening of schools, we have entered the period in which flu infections, respiratory infections and viral infections are common. From now on, we will encounter infections such as colds, flu and flu more and more frequently. We expect the increase in the number of cases to continue until January and February, and then to start to decrease. We need to protect ourselves well during this period."

"NOW IS THE TIME FOR VACCINE"

Pointing out that the vaccine must be renewed every year and that the protection lasts for 5-6 months, Özlü said, "Protection begins within 15-20 days after the vaccination and this protection continues for 5-6 months. Thus, protection can be provided to cover the flu season. In this respect, we are now in a suitable period to get vaccinated."

WHO SHOULD GET THE FLU VACCINE?

Stating that the flu vaccine can be given to all individuals over the age of 6 months, Özlü said that it is vital to vaccinate especially people in the risk group. The expert listed the groups for which vaccination is recommended as follows:

Individuals aged 50-65 and above (even if they are healthy)

Those with chronic lung, heart, diabetes and kidney diseases

Cancer patients and people with compromised immune systems

Pregnant women and overweight individuals

Smokers, nursing home residents and healthcare workers

People under the age of 18 using aspirin

"AVOID CLOSE CONTACT, BENEFIT FROM NATURAL SUPPORTS"

Reminding that diseases are transmitted through breathing, Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü; He stated that closed, crowded environments should be avoided and close contact such as hugging and kissing should be avoided. He also added that in addition to consuming plenty of water, quality sleep and a balanced diet, ginger and herbal teas can be consumed as supportive supplements.