How to Avoid Getting the Flu: Health Minister Provides Tips

Considering the fact that due to close interactions within the population, severe cases of post-influenza complications are mainly recorded after the New Year holidays, the Ministry of Health urges once again:

• As much as possible, avoid close contacts. Even a single kiss can lead to flu infection, which is risky for newborns and young children.
• If possible, do not participate in mass events.
• Exclude visits to hospitalized patients, as influenza and acute respiratory infections are transmitted through airborne droplets, and even one infected person can infect many healthy individuals.
• Avoid contact with patients showing flu-like symptoms.
• Avoid self-treatment and the use of antibiotics, as they are not indicated for the treatment of influenza.
• Dress according to the weather.
• Ventilate closed spaces frequently.
• Consume plenty of fluids.
• Maintain etiquette for coughing and sneezing.
• If you belong to a high-risk group, it is essential to GET vaccinated against influenza and follow personal hygiene.

The source of infection is an infected person who poses a risk to others from the first day of the illness until full recovery.

The flu virus infects the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, from where tiny mucus particles containing the virus are released into the environment when coughing, sneezing, and talking, potentially infecting surrounding individuals.

The main symptoms of influenza include:

• Fever (39-40°)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• A feeling of body aches
• Fatigue
• Headache