Seasonal flu continues to spread widely across society, with medical facilities in Azerbaijan reporting an increase in patients presenting with high fever, cough, and general fatigue.
Speaking to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Zakir Guliyev, a specialist-expert and therapist at the Ministry of Health, emphasized that seasonal flu is a serious illness and urged citizens to take timely protective measures.
According to the expert, seasonal flu is an acute respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus, primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. 
Effective prevention and vaccination
Zakir Guliyev stated that the most effective and specific way to protect against the disease is vaccination. Currently, flu vaccines produced in leading European countries are available to citizens in Azerbaijan entirely free of charge at hospitals and polyclinics. Every individual can receive this vaccine for free, which remains the most reliable method of prevention.
In addition to vaccination, the therapist noted that non-specific protection measures are also vital. Using masks, maintaining social distance, and adhering to personal hygiene rules are the most effective approaches against diseases spread by respiratory droplets.
Potential complications and health risks
The specialist warned that the public often underestimates the flu, which is a dangerous misconception. According to Guliyev, the flu can lead to severe complications, the most dangerous being pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs). Furthermore, the disease can escalate to inflammation of the middle ear, cerebral vessels, and even the meninges.
Zakir Guliyev also highlighted the importance of strengthening the immune system. He noted that a healthy and balanced diet, proper sleep patterns, stress management, and an active lifestyle play a crucial role in maintaining immunity.
In Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Health regularly monitors seasonal viral trends to ensure public safety. Seasonal influenza typically peaks during the colder months, and health authorities in Baku and other regions emphasize that early intervention and preventive care are essential to reducing the burden on the national healthcare system and preventing the spread of the virus in public spaces and educational institutions.
