For this reason, it is important to know the types of infections we may face and the preventive measures we can take.

Types of summer infections

“Summer infections can be caused by a number of factors, including increased humidity, heat, contact with contaminated water or food, and overcrowding,” notes the Mr. Spyridon Barbas PathologistDirector of the 5th Metropolitan General Pathology Clinic & Director of the Pathology Department of the MyClinic polyclinic in Mykonos and continues by mentioning the infections that we can face in the summer, as well as the measures to prevent and deal with them:

“Some of the more common types of infections include:

1. Respiratory tract infections: These include common colds, pharyngitis and upper respiratory tract infections. These infections are more common during summer due to exposure to air conditioners and crowded places.
2. Gastrointestinal infections: They are often caused by eating contaminated food or water. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. It is important to maintain good hygiene and avoid consuming food and water of questionable quality.
3. Skin infections: Increased sweating and exposure to contaminated water can cause skin infections, such as fungal and bacterial. Good skin hygiene and avoiding contact with contaminated water can help prevent these infections.
4. UTIs: UTIs are more common in women during the summer, mainly due to increased humidity and frequent visits to swimming pools and beaches. It is important to maintain good hygiene and avoid prolonged use of wet swimwear.”

Prevention

“Prevention is the first and most important step in dealing with summer infections.

Basic instructions include:

1. Good hand hygiene: Regular hand washing with soap and water or using an antiseptic can reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens.
2. Avoid touching the face: Avoiding hand-to-face contact, especially the eyes, nose and mouth, can reduce the risk of infection.
3. Social distancing: Keeping your distance from people who are showing symptoms of illness, such as coughing or sneezing, can help prevent the spread of infections.
4. Mask use: Especially in crowded areas wearing a mask can provide additional protection.
5. Vaccination: Getting up-to-date and getting the necessary vaccines, especially for flu and other respiratory infections, can help prevent serious infections.”

Management and treatment

“If a summer infection occurs, prompt and proper management is essential.

What measures you can take:

1. Hydration and rest: They are necessary to strengthen the immune system and help in recovery.
2. Symptomatic treatment: Use of analgesics and antipyretics to treat symptoms relieve pain and fever.
3. Medical advice: Necessary contact with a doctor in case of worsening of symptoms or occurrence of high fever and difficulty breathing.

Summer infections are a reality that requires careful management and prevention. With the right information and the appropriate precautions, we can enjoy a healthy and safe summer, avoiding unwanted situations that may affect the quality of our vacation” concludes Mr. Barbas.

*Health services in tourist destinations

Tourist destinations must offer upgraded health services for both residents and tourists. Modern medical services include advanced medical technology equipment such as CT and MRI scanners and ultrasounds. Cooperation between public and private agencies ensures the provision of high quality primary care.

The Hellenic Healthcare Group (HHG), the largest health group in Greece, with the aim of upgrading the medical infrastructure outside of Attica, has expanded its network of diagnostic centers in the Cyclades as well. The MyClinic polyclinic in Mykonos is a fully equipped center in the heart of Mykonos on Ornos, offering high-quality primary care health services on the island and the wider Cyclades region, with the support of the HHG Group’s clinics and doctors.