Rising flu Cases and⁢ Vaccination Importance

Flu cases in Türkiye are anticipated to increase significantly ⁣by the end of November, peaking in December and January. Experts warn that children are primary spreaders of the influenza virus, while the majority of fatalities occur among individuals⁤ aged 65 and older. Increased vaccination⁤ rates ​are crucial to mitigate the impact of the upcoming flu season.

Vaccination Recommendations for Vulnerable Groups

Experts emphasize the critical importance⁢ of vaccination for several groups.Individuals over the age of 65,‍ pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, and ‍children between 6 months and 5 years old are considered particularly vulnerable and ​are ‍strongly ⁢encouraged⁢ to receive the influenza vaccine.

Professor ⁢Dr. Güzin Zeren Öztürk, President of the Turkish Family Physicians Specialization Association⁢ (TAHUD), highlighted that over 70% of influenza-related deaths annually occur in individuals over ⁤65. This⁤ underscores the ‌necessity of⁢ vaccination for those with weakened immune systems. Hürriyet reports that vaccination is especially vital for this age group.

The influenza vaccine is also recommended⁢ for pregnant⁤ women, starting from the second trimester.Importantly, ‌the vaccine provides protection not only to the mother but also‌ to ⁤the baby. Antibodies generated​ by the vaccine cross the placenta, offering the infant immunity for the first six months of‍ life.

Türkiye’s Vaccination Rates ‍Compared to Europe

While vaccination rates among individuals over 65 in many‌ European countries – including England, the Netherlands, and Spain​ – range between 70-85 ​percent, Türkiye’s vaccination rate is considerably⁤ lower. This disparity raises​ concerns about the potential severity of‌ the flu season in Türkiye and the need for increased public health ‍efforts to promote ‌vaccination.