With the approaching flu and acute respiratory viral infection season, residents of Uzbekistan are strongly advised to take preventive measures in advance. Experts recommend using simple protective methods and getting vaccinated against the flu before the seasonal increase in morbidity begins.
Doctor of Medical Sciences and virologist Dildora Sekler noted that vaccination is the only way for specific influenza prevention. According to her, the optimal time for vaccination is September or October, and one should use a vaccine corresponding to the current epidemiological season.
Various groups of people can receive vaccinations: healthy adults, the elderly, pregnant women, and children starting from six months. The specialist clarified that the vaccination provides protection against a specific influenza virus and the strains it is designed against, but it does not prevent infection with other viruses that cause ARVI.
Among general, non-specific preventive measures, Dildora Sekler highlighted a balanced diet, regular walks in the fresh air, ensuring sufficient sleep, as well as constant ventilation and maintaining humidity in rooms. During periods of increased morbidity, it is also recommended, if possible, to avoid places where large crowds gather.
If someone in the family falls ill, measures must be taken to minimize the risk of infecting other household members. Such measures include wearing masks, frequent hand hygiene, and disinfecting surfaces that relatives touch often.
At the first signs of illness, the virologist advises immediately consulting a doctor. Although there are medications that can act directly on the influenza virus, their prescription must be made taking into account the individual clinical picture. Furthermore, the specialist warned against self-medication using immunomodulatory drugs and interferon inducers for the prevention of respiratory diseases.
Sekler particularly emphasized the importance of timely medical attention for any course of viral illness, as both the flu and other viral infections can cause serious complications.