By pointing out that prevention is always better than cure, the Medical Association of Athens (ISA) gives advice to spend the holidays safely. He notes that every year during the festive period of Christmas and New Year there is a large increase in both infections and accidents that endanger our health and lives. It draws attention to the scrupulous observance of measures to prevent and avoid the transmission of viruses, especially in crowded areas. At the same time, he sounds the alarm about the low response of citizens to revaccination against SARS-CoV2 and calls on citizens and especially the vulnerable groups to be vaccinated against coronavirus, influenza and pneumococcal.

According to Anastasios Hatzis Pediatrician – Intensivist v. Coordinator – Director of the ICU of the Children’s Hospital Agia Sophia, former Member of the Board of the ISA, recently increased cases of respiratory viruses have been recorded, while cases of the new sub-variant of Omicron, JN 1, have been identified. with a high daily number of intubations and deaths. He adds that although the mode of transmission remains the same (droplets from talking, sneezing and coughing), contagion without a mask is very common.

At the same time, he points out good hand hygiene.

Treatment of infections

Unfortunately, many people still follow the wrong treatment of the infection, either by avoiding antiviral drugs, or by taking antibiotics, which have no effect on viruses, says Mr. Hatzis.

The now established annual flu vaccination seems to have become a consciousness for the world, something that should also be done for the coronavirus. The same applies to the other vaccines (against pneumococcal, herpes zoster, etc.), which we should do.

“We can enjoy the holidays without putting our health at risk. It is important to take precautions and ensure that we have the necessary vaccinations that will protect us during this period when the transmission of respiratory viruses is expected to increase. We should follow the prevention rules to protect ourselves and our people especially if they belong to the vulnerable groups”, emphasizes the president of ISA George Patoulis.

Streptococcus A

The recent death of a child with invasive Streptococcus A infection has caused particular concern.

The instructions are clear: if a child develops a high fever with any accompanying symptoms, parents should contact their pediatrician. He will examine the child, perform the strep test at his discretion and determine the medication. In addition, frequent updates on the child’s condition and re-examination are recommended.

Hygiene of the space

We should overall take care of the hygiene of the space and the environment in which we live. Smoking, for example, which is harmful anyway in a closed space, also increases the possibility of transmission of the coronavirus, says Mr. Hatzis.

Accidents

Excessive speed, whether in cities or on small country roads, violation of traffic rules, together with alcohol consumption, contribute to increasing both the frequency and severity of accidents. In addition, the increase in the circulation of electric scooters, which develop high speed, is responsible for some fatal accidents.

Diet

Do not forget the eating habits, which these days are part of the celebration and fun. Binge eating, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking burden the human body, especially those who already have some underlying health problems, such as obesity, chronic lung disease or heart disease, etc.

Mental health

Emotional disturbances caused by loneliness, poverty, bereavement, etc., intensify during these festive days and lead to overeating, excessive use of alcohol, sedatives, and even suicide attempts.

The organized state, local society, Public Health Services, voluntary organizations and even the citizens themselves should be aware and help their fellow human beings.