What You Need to Know About Influenza

What You Need to Know About Influenza As cold, influenza (swine flu) and upper respiratory tract infections spread rapidly alongside Covid-19 in recent days, children face heightened risk. Dr. Demet Matben, Pediatrics Specialist at Acıbadem Fulya Hospital, states: "During the pandemic period, combined with winter weather effects, upper respiratory tract infections, highly contagious influenza (swine flu), Covid-19 and intestinal infections are very frequently seen, particularly in school-age children. Even with mask use, prolonged time spent in enclosed spaces leads to the rapid spread of these diseases," she says. Dr. Demet Matben emphasizes that these diseases, which spread through respiration, coughing and sneezing and present with many symptoms including high fever, nasal discharge, cough and abdominal pain, require prompt medical consultation and appropriate treatment based on test results. She notes that sometimes high fever may not appear, making it very important not to mistakenly assume the child has no fever. Pediatrics Specialist Dr. Demet Matben explained the diseases currently affecting children and outlined 5 precautions that should not be neglected for a healthy winter.

Cold (Common Cold)

The common cold, presenting with symptoms such as nasal discharge and sneezing, can lead to middle ear infection and acute bacterial sinusitis, even lower respiratory tract infections if neglected. Treatment involves nasal washing with saline solution and drinking plenty of water to clear accumulated mucus secretions. However, due to the possibility of Covid-19, close observation in the initial stage is important, and keeping the child at home for rest rather than sending them to school is critical.

Influenza (Swine Flu)

Dr. Demet Matben notes that swine flu, frequently seen and rapidly spreading in recent days, can present with high fever, headache, chills, cough, nausea, vomiting and sore throat, stating: "While some children experience mild cases, in others it can even lead to pneumonia. At the first sign of any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor without delay and begin treatment based on test results."

Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis, which causes inflammation of small air passages in the lungs, presents with symptoms similar to the common cold, but cough, wheezing, rapid breathing and difficulty breathing may also be observed. Medical attention must be sought without delay.

Flu

Flu, one of the main diseases of winter months, is spreading rapidly. There has been a significant recent increase in the number of children admitted to hospitals with flu complaints. Overcrowded places and insufficient attention to hygiene rules also increase transmission risk. Flu presents with symptoms such as nasal discharge, fatigue, sore throat and cough, and can be confused with Covid-19 symptoms.

Middle Ear Infections

Middle ear infection can occur following upper respiratory tract infections, which carry very high transmission risk, particularly in children who spend frequent time in enclosed spaces. Middle ear infection, presenting with headache, high fever, ear pain and reduced hearing, can lead to serious complications if untreated. Antibiotics may be administered in the treatment of middle ear infection.

Covid-19

Pediatrics Specialist Dr. Demet Matben states: "In recent days, Covid-19 patients most frequently visit clinics. It is particularly widespread in school-age children and even in babies who have contact with them. Families should not fall into the misconception of 'no fever' because it does not necessarily cause high fever; nasal discharge, cough, muscle, joint and particularly headache can occur. We can encounter Covid-19 even in children presenting with only nasal discharge. For this reason, even if nasal discharge is the symptom, these complaints should not be overlooked, individuals should be tested and quickly isolated. Vaccination of parents and children over 12 years of age when vaccination is due is the most important protection method. Treatment is symptomatic and focused on strengthening body resistance," she said.

Rhinovirus

Rhinovirus, very frequently seen particularly in winter months as weather cools, is a disease causing fever, nasal discharge, cough and even lower respiratory tract infections. It follows a severe course especially in small infants.

Attention! These 5 Rules Cannot Be Neglected!

Pediatrics Specialist Dr. Demet Matben lists protection measures against diseases commonly seen in children as follows:

• Pay attention to mask use and hand washing. Viruses and bacteria spread easily in enclosed spaces. For this reason, not removing the mask, wearing it correctly and changing it when necessary are very important.
• Door handles, stair railings and even mobile phones frequently touched by children are ideal places for live viruses to survive and are abundantly found. For this reason, washing hands frequently throughout the day and avoiding putting hands on face, eyes and mouth is of critical importance.
• Complete vaccinations on schedule.
• Pay attention to healthy nutrition and consumption of seasonal vegetables and fruits containing vitamin C.
• Since viruses and bacteria spread easily in enclosed and crowded spaces, regularly ventilate the space by opening windows at regular intervals throughout the day.