The doctor named effective methods of flu prevention in the autumn period

Following simple hygiene rules and timely vaccination remain the most effective ways to protect against influenza at the beginning of the epidemic season. Andrey Kondrakhin, senior lecturer at the Department of Pharmacology at the Institute of Pharmacy and Medicinal Chemistry at Pirogov University, told Izvestia about this on October 21.

According to the expert, basic preventive measures include wearing masks in crowded areas, using sanitizers, washing hands thoroughly, and treating the mouth and nose after returning from work. The specialist recommends paying special attention to the zoning of the home space.

"You need to change street clothes for home clothes, and there should be a zone where you take off street clothes, and a zone where you are at home. Because the virus can be spread on clothes, on hair, on shoes," said Kondrakhin.

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Infection most often occurs through hands and paper bills, so regular antiseptic treatment of hands before touching the face becomes a critically important habit, he said.

The pharmacologist noted that traditional methods of prevention do not demonstrate effectiveness, and hardening requires constant use throughout life. A balanced diet with enough vitamins supports the immune system, but does not guarantee protection from infection during an epidemic outbreak. The only scientifically proven method of protection remains vaccination against influenza, which provides specific immunity.

Kondrakhin explained the seasonal increase in the incidence of the phenomenon of "population-based stressed immunity." After summer vacations and long holidays, people return to groups with weakened immune systems, which leads to a rapid spread of infection.

"Office workers, schoolchildren and visitors to shopping malls are becoming especially vulnerable, where ideal conditions are created for the transmission of the virus," the specialist added.

The expert also drew attention to the influence of solar activity on the aggressiveness of microorganisms. According to microbiologists, viruses show increased activity during periods of magnetic storms.

On October 17, doctor Zheng Xuezhi told how to strengthen the body's defenses and survive the cold season without illness. According to him, "at this time of the year, the key to health lies in the harmony of yin and yang, following the rhythms of nature and gently strengthening the immune system."

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