Khaberni - The Director of the National Center for Epidemic Control, Dr. Adel Al-Balbisi, confirmed that with the onset of the winter season, cases of respiratory diseases such as influenza, syncytial virus, and COVID-19 tend to increase along with other viruses.
Dr. Al-Balbisi stated in radio statements that influenza is a highly contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory system, and explained that if one person becomes infected, the disease can spread to the entire family unless preventive measures are taken.
He clarified that the current situation is normal compared to last year, when 6,500 samples were taken showing that influenza A infection rates were 7%, while this year it is only 1%. Syncytial virus cases were 11% last year compared to less than 3.5% this season, and COVID-19 has decreased from 3.25% to 2.5%.
He explained that respiratory diseases typically start in the autumn and continue until spring, noting that rain helps to reduce dust levels, thus decreasing the transmission of infections.
Dr. Al-Balbisi noted that comparing the situation in Jordan with that in Japan and Europe is inaccurate, as there is a widespread prevalence of influenza H3N2 there, while in Jordan, H1N1 is prevalent, with a possibility of H3N2 emerging this year.
He emphasized the importance of the flu vaccine, urging the start of vaccination at the beginning of autumn; it is available from the Ministry of Health and the private sector, especially for the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those with weak immune systems or chronic diseases, explaining that it protects against contracting the disease or reduces the severity of symptoms, with the possibility of slight redness at the injection site.
Dr. Al-Balbisi also stressed the necessity of adhering to the use of masks in crowded places and minimizing mixing with others, pointing out that most respiratory diseases last no more than a week, and that antibiotics are not effective in treating viral infections, urging not to use them except in confirmed cases of bacterial infection.
