Over 70 people have died this season in Romania after catching the flu virus. The blizzard and cold that have taken the country into their grip in the past few days have contributed to this situation. According to statistics, over 1,700 flu-related cases have been reported in the past week alone, as compared to only 85 in the previous flu season.
The last flu victim is, according to authorities, a 58-year old woman from the western county of Hunedoara, with comorbidities, and who had not been immunized. In fact, most of the victims had not been immunized against the flu virus so doctors have repeatedly urged people to get vaccinated, as this is the safest protection measure.
Head of the “Matei Bals Institute of Infectious Diseases, Adrian Streinu Cercel, has explained: “Patients suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure, those with a history of ischaemic cardiomyopathy and strokes, obese people and pregnant women run the risk of developing severe forms of the flu and even lose their lives. I must say that flu does make victims and for this reason there is an immunization in place. Flu is not just going to disappear overnight. So if we do not want to catch the virus and put our lives at risk, getting immunized is the only way to prevent it.
The situation in Romania is serious and getting the flu shot can save lives, although there can be some adverse reactions, head of the Public Health Authority in Salaj, northwestern Romania, doctor Ligia Marincas, says: “I think that every parent must be aware that vaccines have so far saved millions and millions of lives. Of course, just like any medical intervention or vaccine, it has side adverse effects. In most cases they are mild, just like in the case of any therapy.
There are several simple rules that can help us prevent catching this virus. Wearing the proper clothes, avoiding exposure to cold, eating caloric food, including more fruits into our diet and eating two or three tablespoons of honey every day can get us through the cold season. Getting enough rest is also important.
Experts say that an adult needs at least 8 hours of sleep at night because a rested body stands more chances of fighting the flu virus successfully. Lets not forget about exercising, which is known to strengthen immunity.
People who experience flu symptoms are advised to get checked by a doctor and not resort to self-medication. Experts say the number of new cases should go down in the upcoming period, in spite of the fact that the number of people getting infected has increased lately. (Translated by E. Enache, edited by D. Vijeu)
