09.07.2025 18:22
Prof. Dr. Serhat Birengel drew attention to the dangers brought by the scorching heat. He noted that the legionella bacteria from air conditioning can lead to pneumonia. Birengel warned about issues such as tick bites, summer infections, heat stroke, and food poisoning, and outlined the necessary precautions to take.
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Prof. Dr. Serhat Birengel, Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology at Ankara University (AU) Faculty of Medicine, stated that scorching heat can lead to many health problems. Birengel noted that the legionella bacteria, due to air conditioning use, can cause pneumonia, and that sudden temperature changes can negatively affect the immune system. He also warned about the risks of intestinal infections from cold beverages and measures that can be taken against these ailments, including tick bites.
"LEGIONELLA BACTERIA FROM AIR CONDITIONERS CAN CAUSE PNEUMONIA"
Birengel made a statement regarding health problems that may arise due to exposure to air conditioning and the increase in infectious diseases during the summer months. He pointed out that the increased use of air conditioning in the summer can negatively affect the immune system due to sudden temperature changes.
Birengel warned, "As temperatures rise seasonally, both fluid consumption increases and the use of air conditioning can create vulnerabilities in the body due to temperature differences. The legionella bacteria from air conditioners can cause pneumonia. As the body weakens, it also becomes easier for other respiratory viruses to settle." He emphasized that one should not stand in front of the air conditioner while sweating.
"THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE FOR AIR CONDITIONING IN WORKPLACES IS 18-21 DEGREES"
Birengel shared the following information:
"The ideal temperature for air conditioning in workplaces is 18-21 degrees. If you are sitting close to the air conditioner, sudden temperature differences can lead to edema of the sinus mucosa and sinusitis in allergic individuals. This also applies to car air conditioners; it is beneficial to protect against sudden temperature changes."
RISK OF INTESTINAL INFECTION FROM COLD BEVERAGES
Birengel provided information about the main causes of summer infections, stating that especially the consumption of cold beverages can have negative effects on the stomach and intestinal system, and that beverages prepared in unhygienic environments or water from unsealed sources can lead to intestinal infections.
MASK USAGE WARNING FOR INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Birengel emphasized the need for careful mask usage in crowded areas, especially during international flights, due to the increased population movement during holiday periods.
Pointing out that people from different geographies are together in the same environment during air travel, Birengel stated, "This situation facilitates the spread of viruses. Therefore, individual protective measures are important during long flights."
On the other hand, Prof. Dr. Birengel noted that seasonal flu generally starts in October-November and lasts until the end of May, and that it is not possible to mention an increase in flu cases recently.
IMPORTANCE OF BODY CHECK AFTER TICK BITES
Birengel emphasized that one of the health problems seen during the summer is Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), and pointed out that special care should be taken against tick bites, especially when spending more time in picnics and open areas during this period.
Birengel stated, "When a tick attaches to the body, it may not be felt. Therefore, after returning from outdoor environments, areas such as the head, behind the ears, behind the knees, and the groin should be checked. If a tick is found, it should be removed with gloves or a cloth, not with bare hands. After the removal process, the person should observe themselves for at least 10 days for symptoms such as fever and weakness."
"ANTIBIOTICS SHOULD BE USED UNDER DOCTOR'S CONTROL"
Birengel expressed that the use of antibiotics in viral infections is incorrect, stating that unnecessary use of these drugs leads to the development of resistance and complicates the treatment process.
He mentioned that antibiotics should not be started unless complications such as bacterial sinusitis develop and there has been no persistent fever from the beginning. He noted that this treatment can be evaluated with a doctor's prescription if symptoms that improve without fever within 4-5 days later worsen again or if complaints last longer than 10 days.
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