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Doctors are comparing the effects of severe influenza to the feeling of “being hit by a truck.” This comparison was made by Dr Walid Abuhammour, head of the Infectious Diseases Department at Al Jalila Children's Hospital. He shared this during the launch of the annual national seasonal influenza awareness campaign by the Ministry of Health and Prevention's (MoHAP) on Monday.
Medical experts highlighted that seasonal influenza is highly contagious, spreading easily through coughing or sneezing. They also stressed that vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent the flu. Stay up to date with the latest news.
Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Flu is serious Influenza is often dismissed as just a cough and fever, but medical experts emphasised that it can lead to severe illness or even death, particularly among high-risk groups. Dr Walid noted that about 4 million people worldwide experience severe influenza each year, with hospital treatment being costly.
He explained, "The biggest misconception is that influenza is just a simple cold. However, it is much more serious. Patients with severe influenza often describe the experience as ‘being hit by a truck.
’ Those with severe strains may be bedridden for seven to ten days and could require ICU admission. " He added that influenza can also worsen chronic conditions and, in severe cases, lead to complications such as pneumonia or sepsis. He urged individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or severe symptoms to seek prompt medical attention.
Despite the severity of the flu, Dr Walid reassured, “It’s a serious condition, but it is preventable,” underlining that while the flu is not to be taken lightly, there are effective ways to avoid it. Vaccination is key Seasonal influenza spreads easily, especially in crowded places like schools and nursing homes. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, droplets containing the virus are released into the air, potentially infecting those nearby.
The virus can also spread through hands contaminated with the virus. To reduce transmission, individuals should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and wash their hands frequently..
