Health Ministry “Annual flu vaccine most important and effective method of protection”

The Ministry of Health gave information on the flu illness and drew attention to the importance of seasonal flu vaccines for those in high-risk groups. The ministry's statement is as follows: “The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It usually causes a nose and throat infection and can mildly affect the lungs. It can cause mild, moderate and severe disease. Sometimes it can result in death. It is transmitted through droplets. Its symptoms are similar to other upper respiratory tract viruses. The disease is most common in children aged 0-17 years. Influenza (flu) can cause complications in healthy people. However, flu-related complications are more likely to develop in people aged 65 and over, people with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, pregnant women, and children under 5. The most important and effective method for the prevention of seasonal flu is to have a yearly vaccine. The flu vaccine can be administered from 6 months of age. Those in the same house and caregivers of infants under 6 months of age need to be vaccinated for their protection. To protect against the flu and other upper respiratory tract viruses it is essential to avoid contact with sick people, especially during the flu season, to wear a mask, to cover the mouth and nose with an arm while sneezing or coughing and to wash hands frequently.