As the number of flu patients increases rapidly in the winter, health authorities have issued a flu epidemic warning. As the flu epidemic index exceeds the standard, the importance of vaccination and hygiene management for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases is being emphasized.
According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the number of suspected influenza patients has recently exceeded 20 per 1,000 outpatients, greatly exceeding the epidemic standard of 6.5. In particular, the number of suspected influenza patients is rapidly increasing among infants and toddlers under 7 years old and elementary school students under 13 years old, and there is a warning that thorough preventive management is necessary at school and at home.
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[Korean Today] Flu Symptoms © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
Health experts explained that the flu virus causes respiratory disease, accompanied by symptoms such as high fever, muscle pain, cough, and headache. The flu is highly contagious and can cause serious complications, especially in children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases, so early prevention is essential.
The most effective way to prevent the flu is vaccination. The flu vaccine is designed to respond to new strains as the virus mutates each year, and antibodies are formed about two weeks after vaccination to take effect. Experts recommend that you complete the vaccination before the flu season begins in earnest.
“The flu vaccine plays an important role in reducing the risk of severe complications and death,” the health center said. “Getting vaccinated against the flu through a medical institution or health center is the most effective way to protect yourself.”
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[Korean Today] Flu Prevention © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
Along with getting a flu shot, it is also important to thoroughly manage personal hygiene. The flu virus is mainly transmitted through droplets, and basic hygiene management such as wearing a mask in public places and washing your hands is effective in preventing infection. In addition, if you have suspected symptoms of infection, it is necessary to rest at home and minimize contact with others.
Especially in winter, dry environments weaken the respiratory mucosa, making it easier for viruses to penetrate. Therefore, it is important to maintain indoor humidity at 40-60% and maintain body water balance by drinking enough water. In addition, strengthening immunity through a balanced diet and appropriate exercise also helps prevent the flu.
The medical community recently cited the decline in mask-wearing and the neglect of personal hygiene as the main reasons for the increase in influenza patients following the pandemic. An infectious disease specialist at a hospital explained, “The easing of social distancing and the return to normal life have created an environment in which the influenza virus can spread more easily,” and “In particular, the spread is occurring rapidly in schools and daycare centers where people live together.”
Flu outbreaks affect schools, workplaces, and communities as a whole, and when cluster infections occur, the social costs can be significant, such as school interruptions or work interruptions. Accordingly, local health authorities are urging patients suspected of having flu to seek immediate diagnosis and treatment at a hospital.
Flu vaccinations are available at public health centers and designated medical institutions nationwide, and children under 13, pregnant women, and seniors over 65 can receive the vaccination for free. In some regions, vaccination campaigns are being strengthened to prevent the spread of flu, and flu prevention education is being conducted at schools and kindergartens.
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[Korean Today] Winter flu prevention © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
Pohang City is encouraging citizens to get vaccinated to prevent the spread of flu in the winter, and is strengthening quarantine measures such as providing additional hand sanitizers and thermometers in public facilities. In addition, Pohang City Health Center is operating a flu-related consultation center and providing accurate information about flu and prevention methods.
It is most important for citizens to take proactive preventive measures to protect their health during a flu epidemic. Experts emphasize that early response to flu prevention and cooperation among community members can effectively prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
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