Flu infections, the frequency of which increases especially during seasonal transitions, are among the diseases that make our daily lives difficult. Unfortunately, almost everyone cannot avoid contracting this contagious disease at least once a year. The cause of this disease, which is usually treated on an outpatient basis and is classically said to be cured in 1 week with medication or in 7 days without medication, is a virus: Influenza virus. We know that this virus, which can be easily transmitted through contact and breathing, causes the disease within 1-4 days... Assoc. Dr. Emre G. Pabuçcu summarized;
How serious problems can a simple flu cause...?
Every year around the world, about About 3-5 million serious flu cases are reported, and 500-600 thousand of them die due to respiratory infections. In other words, it is necessary to be very careful and take precautions, especially in risky groups, such as those with immune system problems, pregnant women, people using chronic medications, children, and healthcare workers.
How serious is the situation in pregnant women?
Pregnancy is a special situation in itself. First of all, there are two lives at stake. There are also some immune problems caused by pregnancy. Therefore, it is necessary to pay special attention to pregnant women. Because the risk of influenza infections during pregnancy causing serious respiratory diseases, especially pneumonia, is much higher than in non-pregnant women. We know that there have been a significant number of deaths in recent years, especially in the 2009 epidemic. It is important to know that the risk increases with the advancing weeks of pregnancy. Pregnant women need to pay attention to personal hygiene. The most important of these are washing hands and avoiding close contact with other people. In addition to basic precautions, daily fluid consumption and nutritional habits are also factors that support immunity. Consuming at least 2 liters of water and washing hands frequently should always be kept in mind.
If you have these symptoms, consult the hospital immediately:
Assoc. Dr. Emre G. Pabuçcu, especially in pregnant women, high fever, shortness of breath, severe depression accompanied by prolonged cough If there is any problem, he recommends applying to the hospital without delay, performing the necessary examinations quickly and taking precautions.
Pregnant women should not be afraid of the flu vaccine...
The flu vaccine can be administered safely during pregnancy and does not cause any harm to the baby. However, 80% of pregnant women do not accept this vaccine. Physicians have a lot of work to do in this regard. Pregnant women need to be informed about the vaccine and the risks of the disease should be explained carefully. The most important effect of the vaccine during pregnancy is that flu infection is less severe and hospitalizations of pregnant women due to serious respiratory infections are reduced. It is also an advantage that inactive flu vaccines can be administered at any stage of pregnancy.
The vaccine even protects the unborn baby...
Another benefit of flu vaccines during pregnancy. It also protects babies in the first 6 months after birth. This is due to natural antibodies passed from the mother to her baby. Since flu vaccination is not given to babies, especially in the first 6 months, if the baby is vaccinated while pregnant, the baby is also protected during this period.
In summary;
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Flu is a serious public health problem, especially in risky groups.
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Pregnancy is also a risky period. Therefore, pay attention to personal hygiene, nutrition and hand washing
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Flu vaccine can be safely administered during pregnancy, the doctor who monitors the pregnancy should be consulted.
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