In recent times, due to seasonal changes, the epidemiological situation and observed diseases in the country are once again coming to the forefront. Of particular interest is whether there have been reports regarding the spread of seasonal diseases among schoolchildren and how the situation has changed with the approaching spring season. Additionally, preventive measures taken and recommendations given to protect citizens, as well as school-aged children, from seasonal diseases are also noteworthy issues.
In a statement to Modern.az regarding the topic, the expert-specialist of the Ministry of Health, infectious disease specialist Təyyar Eyvazov, noted that the epidemiological situation in Azerbaijan is currently assessed as stable and under control. According to him, certain changes are observed in the structure of diseases with the approach of the spring season.
“Although cases of seasonal flu infection have decreased, other acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are still active. The general trend is that airborne infectious diseases are significantly decreasing.”
The expert-specialist pointed out that schoolchildren are one of the most vulnerable groups during seasonal changes:
“Because being together in enclosed spaces for a long time increases the rate of airborne infections. Temperature fluctuations in March affect children's immune systems, leading to cases accompanied by sore throat, runny nose, and high fever. As a result of vitamin deficiency (avitaminosis), a decrease in energy, fatigue, and insomnia are recorded in the p emerging from winter. With the arrival of spring, an increase in reports related to seasonal allergies is expected. Thus, during the pollination period of trees and plants, complaints of sneezing, itchy eyes, and allergic rhinitis increase. The similarity of symptoms causes allergic conditions to be mistaken for respiratory viral infections.
The Ministry of Health recommends not allowing children with fever into school and kindergarten groups, adding seasonal vegetables and foods rich in Vitamin C to the diet to strengthen immunity, regularly ventilating living and educational rooms, maintaining normal humidity, choosing appropriate clothing for temperature changes (to prevent sweating and catching a cold), and frequent hand washing (the simplest and most effective way to protect against viruses),” T. Eyvazov stated.
