Warning issued over 'summer flu' spread due to temperature changes and air conditioning

Experts in Turkey are urging the public to take precautions against infections commonly known as 'summer flu,' highlighting the importance of hygiene, adequate fluid intake, and minimizing close contact with infected individuals. Dr. Süleyman İbze, an academic staff member at Istanbul University's Faculty of Medicine, Emergency Medicine Department, noted that viral infections are not confined to winter or autumn and can spread year-round.

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There is a perception in society that flu and viral infections are only seen in winter or autumn months. We can encounter viral infections at any time of the year.

"There is a perception in society that flu and viral infections are only seen in winter or autumn months. We can encounter viral infections at any time of the year," Dr. İbze explained. He pointed out that factors facilitating the spread of these infections in warmer weather include increased use of swimming pools and the sea, as well as sudden temperature fluctuations. Entering extremely cold, air-conditioned spaces from intense outdoor heat, or vice versa, can negatively impact the upper respiratory tract's adaptation process.

Dr. İbze also cautioned that droplets spread through sneezing and coughing in poorly ventilated, air-conditioned environments can increase transmission risk among people sharing the same space. Simple measures like frequent handwashing and maintaining good hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of viral infections. He advised reducing close contact when symptoms appear and using masks when necessary.

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Entering extremely cold, air-conditioned spaces from intense outdoor heat, or vice versa, can negatively impact the upper respiratory tract's adaptation process.

"People may take these illnesses less seriously in the summer compared to winter," Dr. İbze observed. "They may delay rest or symptomatic treatment." This can lead to prolonged symptoms, even if the illness doesn't become severe. He stressed that individuals in high-risk groups are particularly susceptible to experiencing more severe illness.

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People may take these illnesses less seriously in the summer compared to winter. They may delay rest or symptomatic treatment.

Furthermore, Dr. İbze advised that not all health issues require an emergency room visit. "A significant portion of simple symptoms and non-urgent complaints can be easily evaluated at primary care family physician offices," he stated. "Our public needs to know this. The emergency room is not the solution for every health problem." He urged patients to seek medical help promptly if they experience a fever lasting more than three days, a significant decline in their overall condition, or persistent and worsening symptoms, especially if they belong to a risk group.

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A significant portion of simple symptoms and non-urgent complaints can be easily evaluated at primary care family physician offices. The emergency room is not the solution for every health problem.