Flu patients cost the healthcare system 56 million TL: 'It creates an economic burden'

Seasonal flu, which affects people every year between October and March, is not just an individual disease; it causes chain effects across a wide area, from the healthcare system to the economy.

According to a comprehensive study conducted in Türkiye, more than 12,000 patients treated in just six hospitals over three flu seasons cost the healthcare system approximately 56 million Turkish Lira. Much of this amount was due to medication expenses, while 40 percent of patients were hospitalized and required an average of nine days of treatment, further increasing costs.

'THERE IS A INTENSITY'

Dr. Güzin Zeren Öztürk, Chair of the Central Executive Board of the Turkish Family Physicians Specialist Association (TAHUD), stated that these figures only include direct treatment costs, adding, "When indirect effects such as loss of labor and decreased productivity are included, it is clear that seasonal flu creates a much greater economic burden for our country."

Öztürk noted that 3-5 million people worldwide contract severe flu each year, and approximately 290,000-650,000 people die. He added, "Outpatient clinics are significantly overcrowded during the winter months. While most people experience mild symptoms, it can have serious consequences for certain groups. Those over 65, children under 5, pregnant women, those with chronic illnesses, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of severe illness."