Dr. Mohamed Ayadi, a pediatrician, has emphasized the importance of protecting young children from respiratory viruses such as influenza and bronchiolitis through vaccination, a healthy diet, and good hygiene practices. In a statement to Radio Joher FM, Ayadi highlighted the need for vaccination, especially for newborns, to prevent severe illnesses. He also stressed the importance of adopting healthy habits, such as washing hands, nose, and face regularly.

Ayadi noted that the vaccine against bronchiolitis is not currently available in Tunisia, making it crucial to protect children under one year old from close contact with others. He advised against kissing or getting too close to young children to prevent the spread of infections. The pediatrician also emphasized the need to import this vaccine as soon as possible, given the limited number of resuscitation rooms available in the country.

Regarding the seasonal flu vaccine, Ayadi announced that it will be available in pharmacies within two to three weeks. He reassured the public that this vaccine does not weaken the immune system, as some people may think, but rather introduces the body to a part of the virus in a safe way, allowing it to build immunity. The vaccine also reduces the risk of severe illness if infected.

The seasonal flu vaccine is recommended for children starting from six months old, and only a doctor can decide whether a child should receive the vaccine. Ayadi encouraged parents to vaccinate their children, warning that a low vaccination rate can lead to the resurgence of diseases such as measles, polio, and meningitis. He noted that while children in Tunisia are not at risk of contracting measles, they can still contract similar diseases.

Ayadi emphasized that the seasonal flu virus can be severe, with symptoms including high fever, difficulty breathing, and exacerbating existing respiratory allergies. He encouraged the public to take precautions and get vaccinated to prevent the spread of the virus. The pediatrician also highlighted the importance of a healthy diet and good hygiene practices in preventing the spread of infections.

The Tunisian healthcare system is taking steps to prevent the spread of seasonal flu and other respiratory viruses. Ayadi's statements highlight the importance of vaccination and healthy habits in preventing severe illnesses. The availability of the seasonal flu vaccine in pharmacies will provide an added layer of protection for the public, particularly for young children and those with compromised immune systems.

In conclusion, Dr. Mohamed Ayadi's announcement about the availability of the seasonal flu vaccine in pharmacies soon is a welcome relief for the public. His emphasis on the importance of vaccination, healthy habits, and good hygiene practices serves as a reminder to take precautions against respiratory viruses. With the vaccine available soon, the public is encouraged to take advantage of this added protection.

Key points

  • The seasonal flu vaccine will be available in Tunisian pharmacies within two to three weeks.
  • Dr. Mohamed Ayadi emphasizes the importance of vaccination, healthy habits, and good hygiene practices in preventing severe illnesses.
  • The vaccine against bronchiolitis is not currently available in Tunisia, making it crucial to protect young children from close contact with others.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.