Specialist: Virus season has not yet begun... Warning of the concurrence of 3 respiratory infections

In a statement to "Al-Rai," he pointed out that climate changes and temperatures rising above their usual averages have contributed to delaying the seasonal activity of viruses compared to previous years.

Al-Tarawneh warned of the possibility of three respiratory viruses spreading concurrently during the coming period: Coronavirus, seasonal influenza, and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which could increase the chances of co-infection and put additional pressure on the health system and medical staff.

He explained that the delay in falling temperatures might lead to the convergence of waves of these viruses, especially with increased interaction in schools, universities, workplaces, and public transportation, stressing that the emergence of seasonal viruses does not necessarily mean the existence of new epidemics, but rather that the risks lie in the coincidence of their spread and the high number of infections within a short period.

Al-Tarawneh stressed the importance of receiving the seasonal influenza vaccine at the present time, due to its role in reducing severe complications and the need for hospital admission, especially among groups most at risk.

He called for the protection of the elderly, pregnant women, children—particularly young ones—and people suffering from weak immunity or chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases.

He also warned that contracting a double or multiple respiratory infection could increase the chances of acute complications in these groups, which might require admission to hospitals or intensive care units, stressing the necessity of early preventive preparedness.

Al-Tarawneh also warned against the random use of antibiotics to treat viral infections, as there is an excessive use of them without a prescription in Jordan, even though they are intended for treating bacterial infections and do not treat viruses.

He confirmed that the unjustified use of antibiotics exacerbates the problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics, which poses a growing health challenge.

He noted the necessity of avoiding what is known as the "cold shot" or "triple shot," which may contain cortisone, painkillers, and antibiotics without medical evaluation, due to the complications and side effects it may cause, including immune system suppression, calling for avoiding self-diagnosis and taking medications without consulting a specialist.

Al-Tarawneh indicated that the majority of healthy people recover from viral respiratory infections without complex treatments, explaining that their symptoms include runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever, fatigue, and muscle aches.

He advised rest, adequate sleep, drinking fluids, and a balanced diet, with the necessity of seeing a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen, and seeking emergency medical care in case of difficulty breathing or the appearance of blue lips.

He emphasized the importance of washing hands, covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and ventilating closed spaces, calling on schools, universities, and work institutions to strengthen preventive measures and for infected individuals to stay in their homes during the period of infection to limit the spread of viruses and reduce absenteeism.

In a related context, Al-Tarawneh pointed out that Jordan possesses the ingredients that qualify it to be a regional center for epidemiological research, the development of diagnostic tests, and the manufacturing of vaccines, thanks to national medical and research competencies and the development of the pharmaceutical industry sector.

He demanded the necessity of supporting the National Center for Epidemics and Communicable Diseases Control and providing the necessary capabilities to enhance its role in early monitoring, research, and proactive health response, in a way that raises the Kingdom's readiness to face future epidemic threats.

Al-Tarawneh considered that the increasing international interest in health security, and the agreements and initiatives supported by the United Nations and global funds to combat epidemics, confirm that epidemic security has become an essential part of the national, food, and comprehensive security of countries.

He added that early preparation, adherence to preventive guidelines, receiving recommended vaccines, and seeking medical advice in a timely manner constitute essential pillars for protecting public health and reducing complications during the expected viral season.