Flu

The most basic means of prevention for the seasonal flu according to the instructions of the EOF/P.O.Y. is the vaccination, which not only reduces the chances of someone getting sick from the flu, but also reduces the severity of the symptoms as well as the possibility of complications. Vaccination is now recommended for all people older than 6 months and must be repeated every year, as the virus easily mutates. Vaccination must be done in October each year. In particular, people who belong to high-risk groups such as people over 50, people with chronic respiratory (asthma, COPD) or heart diseases (coronary disease), people with diabetes, obese people (bmi>30), patients with neurological diseases or kidney failure, patients with hemoglobinopathies or splenectomy, pregnant women as well as those who work in nursing institutions or take care of the elderly or babies.

Equally important for prevention is the adoption of personal hygiene measures by both sick and healthy people, so as to avoid or limit the spread of the virus. So, if someone is sick, they should stay at home for at least seven days after the onset of symptoms and definitely for 24 hours after the fever has subsided. Patients should eat well, drink plenty of water and juices rich in vitamin C, get enough sleep and avoid smoking. They should also take care to frequently ventilate the space they live in, wash their hands thoroughly with simple soap and water before touching any surface, especially if they live in the same space as healthy people.

Patients who sneeze or cough should use tissues or make sure to cough into the inner surface of their elbow. Healthy people who care for patients or live with them in the same house must necessarily wear a mask and gloves when they come into contact and wash their hands thoroughly whenever they touch the patient or commonly used surfaces. For this reason, special disposable antiseptic wipes or special antiseptic hand solutions can also be used.

The use of nutritional supplements rich in vitamins, zinc and herbal ingredients (propolis, echinacea) contribute to strengthening the immune system. The prevention of transmission is also achieved by avoiding places where people are crowded in winter (e.g. coffee shops) and by regular ventilation of these places.

Angelos P. Karatzaferis, Specialist Pathologist/ Scientific Associate for the GET WELL Natural Corner service
Excellent Graduate of the School of Medicine of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Specialty in Internal Pathology at the Pathological Physiology Clinic of the University of Athens