16.01.2026 17:15
Chest Diseases Specialist Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya stated that as of January 2026, there has been a significant increase in respiratory infections across Europe and Turkey, emphasizing that this winter has been marked by a "tripledemic." Prof. Dr. Özkaya said, "Our patients are complaining of body aches that are more severe and widespread than they have ever experienced before."
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), this winter; Influenza A (H3N2), RSV, and COVID-19 are spreading simultaneously. Chest Diseases Specialist Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya emphasized that widespread muscle and joint pain is the most notable feature of this season.
PAINS DESCRIBED AS "LIKE MY BONES ARE BREAKING"...
Özkaya noted that the dominant Influenza A (H3N2) infection is characterized by sudden high fever, severe fatigue, and pains described as "like my bones are breaking." He stated that in the COVID-19 variants Nimbus and JN.1, sore throat and widespread body aches are prominent. He emphasized that RSV particularly leads to severe muscle pain and respiratory distress in individuals over 65 and those with weakened immune systems.
“A DOCTOR MUST BE CONSULTED”
Prof. Dr. Özkaya expressed that citizens should not panic, stating, "Many infections can resolve with rest and fluid intake. However, if a fever lasts more than three days, there is shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or if symptoms persist for more than 10 days, a doctor must be consulted."
BEWARE OF UNNECESSARY ANTIBIOTIC USE
Reminding that antibiotics are not effective against virus-related infections, Özkaya pointed out that unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to serious health problems, stating, "Although the flu vaccine does not provide 100% protection, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization."