ARI and Flu: Prevention

A seasonal increase in influenza and acute respiratory infections (hereinafter referred to as ARI) occurs in the autumn (October-December). According to the World Health Organization, ARI and influenza account for up to 95% of all infectious disease cases. Almost everyone has had an acute respiratory infection. These infections are most dangerous for people at risk: children, adults over 65, and people with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems. These groups are at high risk of complications, so prevention is especially important for them. Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus, characterized by a sudden onset of illness, high fever (38-40°C), severe general intoxication, and damage to the respiratory tract. ARIs are characterized by acute damage to the human respiratory system. The most common symptoms include redness of the mucous membranes of the oropharynx, a sore or scratchy throat, a runny or stuffy nose, hoarseness, coughing, sneezing, and a fever, usually low (up to 38°C). In both cases, the source of infection is a person with either clinically overt or latent symptoms. Transmission occurs through airborne droplets and contaminated hands or objects contaminated with respiratory viruses. If there are people in the family with symptoms of acute respiratory infections or influenza, it is important to remember the principles of preventing transmission to family and friends (isolation of the sick person in a separate room, wearing masks, maintaining personal hygiene, regularly ventilating rooms and wet cleaning, and limiting visits to the sick person). All people with symptoms of acute respiratory infections or influenza are advised to consult a doctor as soon as possible to receive timely and appropriate treatment and prevent complications. Remember, self-medication is unacceptable, and complications can be very varied. During the seasonal increase in diseases, the population is advised to limit attendance at mass events, especially those held indoors, try to avoid too close contact with sick people, observe "respiratory etiquette", and also ventilate premises as often as possible and carry out wet cleaning. Currently, the most effective and reliable means of preventing influenza is immunization. The immunity acquired as a result of vaccination reliably protects against the disease. Carrying out annual vaccinations against seasonal influenza significantly reduces the incidence of the disease in all age groups. The goal of vaccination is not the complete elimination of influenza as an infection, but to reduce the incidence of the disease and especially its complications. In the Republic of Belarus, preventive vaccinations against influenza are included in the National Immunization Schedule, according to which children from 6 months of age and adults from high-risk groups for infection and consequences from influenza infection (children attending organized groups, students,(Healthcare workers, service workers, transport workers, food service workers, retail workers, educational institutions, and military personnel). It's also important to remember that preventing acute respiratory infections and influenza involves general health improvement, strengthening the body and boosting the immune system through hardening, physical exercise, eating nutritious, vitamin-rich foods, and taking vitamin supplements in late winter and early spring, as well as quitting bad habits. In the Stolin District, flu vaccinations are available at all departments of the Stolin Central District Hospital (outpatient clinics, and emergency medical services). Mobile vaccination teams of healthcare workers have been organized to vaccinate businesses, organizations, and workforces, as well as the elderly and people with disabilities. TAKE CARE OF YOUR HEALTH AND THE HEALTH OF YOUR LOVED ONES! PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE FLU!