As winter sets in and temperatures drop, seasonal illnesses are drawing increased concern due to favorable conditions for viral transmission.

Doctors speaking to the Jordan News Agency (Petra) stressed the importance of public awareness regarding vaccines and preventive measures, noting that adherence to healthy practices remains the first line of defense against seasonal diseases.

Dr. Ayman Al-Muqabaleh, Director of the Epidemiology Department at the Ministry of Health, stated that the dominant virus circulating in Jordan is currently Influenza A (H3N2). He noted a likely rise in cases, adding that no respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections have been detected and only one COVID-19 case per week has been recorded over the last two weeks.

He explained that respiratory viruses share very similar symptoms, making laboratory testing essential for accurate diagnosis, and emphasized that symptom severity varies according to an individual’s immunity.

Al-Muqabaleh offered several preventive recommendations, including taking the annual flu vaccine—preferably in October though it remains beneficial year-round—regularly washing hands with warm water for 40 seconds, ensuring good ventilation in closed spaces, and wearing masks in healthcare settings and crowded places when needed.

For those infected, he advised home isolation, avoiding contact with others, limiting interaction with family members, not sharing personal items, and visiting a health center for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.