What is Influenza?
Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus, commonly known as the flu. It is usually common during the winter months and can spread rapidly. Influenza viruses, especially types A and B, are constantly changing, resulting in different flu outbreaks each year.
What are the Symptoms of Influenza?
Symptoms of influenza usually start suddenly and may include
Fever and chills
Cough and sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Fatigue
In some cases, vomiting and diarrhea (especially in children)
How is Influenza Diagnosed?
Influenza can usually be diagnosed by symptoms and physical examination. However, in some cases doctors may use viral tests. These tests are usually done on swabs taken from the nose or throat.
How to Treat Influenza?
The main goal of influenza treatment is to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment usually includes rest, plenty of fluids and antipyretics/painkillers. In addition, specific antiviral medicines for influenza can be used on doctor's advice.
What is the Influenza Test?
The influenza test is used to detect the presence of the flu virus. Usually rapid antigen tests or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which are more sensitive, are used.
How Effective is the Flu Vaccine?
Grip aşısı, her yıl dolaşımdaki influenza virüsü suşlarına göre güncellenir. Bu aşı, grip enfeksiyonu riskini ve ağır grip komplikasyonlarını önemli ölçüde azaltabilir. Grip aşısının etkinliği yıldan yıla değişebilir ve kişinin yaşına, genel sağlık durumuna ve aşının o yılki virüs suşlarına ne kadar iyi uyum sağladığına bağlıdır. Genellikle, aşı grip riskini %40-60 oranında azaltabilir.
What is the Difference Between Influenza and the Common Cold?
Influenza and the common cold are caused by different viruses, although they have similar symptoms. The common cold usually causes milder symptoms and is characterized by nasal congestion, sneezing and sore throat. Influenza, on the other hand, is characterized by more severe symptoms, especially high fever, severe muscle aches and fatigue. Influenza can lead to serious complications, while the common cold usually goes away on its own.
How is Influenza Transmitted and How to Prevent It?
Influenza can be transmitted by airborne droplets through the cough or sneeze of an infected person. It can also be transmitted by touching mucous membranes such as the face, mouth or eyes after touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Flu prevention methods include annual flu vaccination, hand washing, observing personal hygiene and limiting close contact with sick people.
What are the Complications of Influenza and Who is at Risk?
Complications of flu include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus and ear infections, and, rarely, heart problems or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). People with chronic health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease), adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women and children under 5 are at high risk of flu complications.
This information is a general guide covering basic information and frequently asked questions about influenza (flu). It is important to consult your healthcare professional for specific advice about your personal health situation.
Precautions to Prevent Influenza Transmission in Offices and Work Environments
1. Strict Monitoring of Hygiene Rules:
Frequent Hand Washing: Frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is recommended to prevent the spread of viruses.
El Dezenfektanlarının Kullanımı: Sabun ve suyun olmadığı durumlarda, en az %60 alkol içeren el dezenfektanlarının kullanılması faydalıdır.
2. Cleaning and Disinfection:
Cleaning Frequently Used Surfaces: Frequently touched surfaces such as phones, keyboards, door handles, elevator buttons should be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
Maintenance of Ventilation Systems: Well-functioning ventilation systems can reduce the risk of spreading viruses by allowing air to circulate.
3. Approach to Employees with Symptoms of Illness:
Stay Home Policy: Employees with fever or flu-like symptoms should be encouraged to stay at home and not return to work until they have recovered.
Flexible Working Arrangements: If possible, alternatives such as remote working or flexible working hours should be offered.
4. Personal Protection and Distance:
Maintaining Social Distancing: Arrangements should be made to keep a distance of at least 1-2 meters between employees.
Mask Use: The use of masks is recommended, especially in closed and crowded environments.
5. Increasing Vaccination and Health Awareness:
Flu Vaccination Incentive: Annual flu vaccination should be recommended for employees.
Awareness Raising Trainings: Awareness raising trainings on influenza and other respiratory diseases should be organized.
6. Emergency Plans:
Pandemic Plans: Emergency plans should be prepared for possible pandemic situations and employees should be informed about these plans.
These measures can be implemented in office and work environments to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases such as influenza and protect the health of workers. These measures should be appropriately tailored to the unique needs of each organization. It is important to take a proactive approach to a healthy working environment.