Dr. Garifalia Poulakou, Associate Professor of Pathology-Infectious Diseases at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA) and Infectious Disease Specialist at Sotiria Hospital, explains how we can protect ourselves from the respiratory infections currently spreading—like this season’s highly contagious flu.

In a recent conversation, Dr. Garifalia Poulakou focused on the surge in respiratory infections this season and shared key tips for prevention and early treatment.

With the H3N2 flu strain dominating Europe and now present in Greece, Dr. Poulakou highlights that “we are in a period where multiple respiratory viruses are circulating simultaneously, increasing the burden especially on vulnerable groups.”

She emphasizes that vaccination remains our strongest tool for preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccination is particularly beneficial for people with underlying health conditions and the elderly, protecting against flu, COVID-19, and RSV viruses.

Dr. Poulakou reminded listeners that “since early 2024, Greece has recorded 149 flu-related deaths,” noting that the vast majority of those who died were unvaccinated, which “clearly underlines the critical importance of prevention.” She also acknowledges “vaccine fatigue,” especially post-pandemic, leading some to hesitate. However, she says, “when informed discussions take place, patients with chronic conditions recognize the value of vaccination.”

Additional prevention tips discussed in the podcast:

• Strengthening the immune system through lifestyle and diet changes.
• The importance of zinc, vitamin D, as well as vitamins C and A in supporting immune defense.
• Maintaining overall health is key: “A diabetic with well-controlled blood sugar or a heart patient with stable heart function has a better prognosis,” Dr. Poulakou explains. Conversely, exhaustion, extreme diets, and stressful lifestyles increase vulnerability.

She also emphasizes early antiviral treatment and warns about the serious complication of pneumonia, noting:
“Recovery from pneumonia can take one to two months—even in young, healthy people.”

Basic preventive measures include:

• Frequent hand washing
• Wearing masks in crowded places
• Keeping physical distance
• Ensuring good ventilation indoors