6 Ways to Protect Yourself from "Super Flu"

Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Aslıhan Demirel explained the dangers posed by the H3N2 virus, its transmission routes, and 6 simple yet effective methods to prevent infection, offering important warnings and recommendations.

The H3N2 virus, known to the public as 'super flu', is spreading rapidly with the winter months! The number of patients presenting to clinics with complaints such as high fever, sore throat, headache and muscle pain, nasal congestion, runny nose and fatigue has increased significantly in recent weeks.

Assoc. Prof. Aslıhan Demirel, Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialist at Acibadem Altunizade Hospital, states: "While the frequency of respiratory tract infections caused by Covid 19 and various viruses has increased, in recent weeks we are particularly seeing influenza cases caused by Influenza A virus. This year, the H3N2 type of Influenza A virus is the most frequently encountered type worldwide. To protect against flu, which is very common across all age groups from infants to the elderly, it is essential to follow certain rules. It is possible to have a healthy winter with some simple but effective precautions."

• Do not neglect hand hygiene
Door handles, table surfaces, computer keyboards, public transportation handrails and commonly shared items create a suitable environment for H3N2 virus transmission. Regular washing of hands that come into contact with these surfaces with soap and water, and using alcohol-based hand antiseptics for temporary protection when hand washing is not available, is very important.

• Eat healthily
Flu can be more severe in people with weakened immune systems. Monotonous and irregular eating significantly reduces the body's defense mechanisms. For this reason, seasonal vegetables and fruits, protein sources, adequate fluid intake and vitamin-mineral balance play a critical role in keeping the immune system strong. In particular, vitamin C, zinc and protein intake are even more important during this period. If deficiency exists, vitamin D and B vitamin supplementation are important. However, the most important thing is to obtain vitamins and minerals naturally. Without doctor's recommendation and without checking your vitamin and mineral levels, using supplements can cause harm rather than benefit, so it is necessary to act responsibly.

• Get adequate and quality sleep
Sleep is one of the most important periods during which the body repairs itself and immune cells become active. Assoc. Prof. Aslıhan Demirel states: "Insufficient and poor quality sleep weakens the immune response and reduces resistance to viruses. While sleep duration adequacy varies from person to person, sleeping especially between 22:00-02:00 hours every night and getting quality sleep helps the body remain stronger against infections."

• Avoid close contact with sick people
The H3N2 virus spreads easily through droplets released into the air during coughing, sneezing and talking. For this reason, maintaining at least 1 meter distance, preferably more, from people known to be ill is very important. Wearing a mask, especially in areas such as hospital elevators and crowded public transportation, plays a critical role in protecting against viruses that spread very easily and very quickly. The thought that "I am strong, nothing will happen to me" can be misleading for this virus, and even brief contact is sufficient for transmission.

• Stay away from stress and protect your mental health
Being under constant stress and inability to manage stress is one of the most important factors suppressing the immune system. Assoc. Prof. Aslıhan Demirel states: "Intense stress and anxiety make the body more susceptible to infections. For this reason, learning to manage stress is very important. Taking short breaks during the day, doing breathing exercises and walking in fresh air can reduce stress levels and provide protective effects against diseases."

• Ventilate enclosed spaces frequently
Rooms, meeting halls, classrooms, offices and crowded enclosed areas appear as suitable environments for virus transmission. The prolonged absence of air exchange in enclosed spaces increases virus concentration. For this reason, avoiding closed and crowded spaces when possible, and ventilating the space at regular intervals when necessary, significantly reduces transmission risk. Ventilation should not be neglected especially before and after crowded meetings.