Respiratory Infections Spreading Among Children

The 2019-2020 season for influenza and acute respiratory infections has begun. To ensure consistent monitoring, specialists from the Ministry of Health's Center for Disease Control and Prevention are conducting ongoing surveillance.

The Ministry of Health reports that the incidence of acute respiratory infections recorded in October 2019 is at the same level compared to the same period in 2018. "It is important to note that despite the low intensity of infections, relatively high rates are being recorded among children under 4 years old. Regarding the currently circulating influenza and acute respiratory infection pathogens, laboratory research results indicate that there are currently no circulating influenza virus pathogens in the republic. Other respiratory virus pathogens such as parainfluenza, rhinovirus, bocavirus, etc., are in circulation," the statement said.

To prevent diseases from influenza and acute respiratory infections and to avoid post-influenza complications, the Ministry of Health advises avoiding contact with individuals showing flu-like symptoms, staying at home when ill, calling a local pediatrician, therapist, or family doctor when unwell, and refraining from self-medication. It is recommended not to use antibiotics, as they are not indicated for the treatment of influenza, to dress according to the weather, to adhere to cough and sneeze etiquette, to drink plenty of fluids, to ventilate enclosed spaces frequently, and to maintain personal hygiene.