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Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health
Minister
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Assoc. Prof. Şuayip BİRİNCİ
Hüseyin Kürşat KIRBIYIK
Halim ÖZÇEVİK
Dr. Yasin ERKOÇ
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What should be done in the face of the increasing respiratory tract infections?
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23 January 2024
Minister Koca: “Since this is related with the seasonal conditions, there is nothing to worry about.”
Minister of Health Fahrettin Koca made a statement on his social media account, saying, “There are some concerns due to respiratory tract infections.”
Is there an increase in respiratory tract infections? Which viruses are active now?
In the winter months, there is an increase in upper respiratory tract infections, especially caused by viruses. These increases are not specific to our country. The situation is similar in other countries. Since this is related with the seasonal conditions, it is not worrisome. However, we can say that there is an increase of nearly 20 percent in emergency visits compared to the same period last year. The most common reason is influenza, followed by RSV and COVID.
What should be done in the face of increasing upper respiratory tract infections?
Cold and flu-related complaints disappear in a short time with simple measures. If the complaints persist for a long time, we should first consult the family physician. Another important point is that those with chronic diseases, pregnant women, adults over the age of 65, and children under the age of 2 can be greatly affected by upper respiratory tract infections. For this reason, it is important to contact the emergency services without delay.
What should be done for protection?
Those in the risk group should get the flu vaccine. If we share an environment with a person who has an infection or has symptoms, we must protect ourselves. If we have an infection, we should wear a mask when we are in the same environment with others. The other important measures are hygiene, consuming plenty of fluids, balanced diet, etc.
Is there a shortage of space in hospitals?
The service bed occupancy rate in hospitals is 65% on average.
The occupancy rate in intensive care beds is approximately 72%. There is a slight increase compared to last year. In Istanbul, the intensive care occupancy rate is approximately 83%. The city with the highest increase is Istanbul. We are trying to get through this process smoothly by increasing the number of beds due to the increase in Istanbul and with the intense efforts of our healthcare professionals.
As a result: Even using some of our experience from the days of COVID can help us spend this winter healthily.
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Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health
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