matteo Bassetti Clarifies Paracetamol Recommendations Amid Influenza Peak
Table of Contents
Recent statements by Professor Matteo Bassetti, Chair of Infectious Diseases at the University of Genoa and San Martino Hospital, have sparked discussions about the use of paracetamol during the current influenza peak. An article in The Gazzettino highlighted his recommendations, which were later misinterpreted on social media as a “step back” from his earlier advice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s delve into the details to understand the context and clarify the confusion.
What Did Bassetti Actually Say?
In an interview, Professor bassetti emphasized the importance of using paracetamol prudently. He warned that excessive or needless use of the drug could lead to notable risks. his exact words were:
«Paracetamolo? It can do enormous damage. When to take it and how much. If one has been infected by virus B, you can be infected by A and vice versa.»
This statement was accurately reported in The Gazzettino, but the headline was misinterpreted by some as a reversal of his previous stance. During the pandemic, Bassetti had recommended “tachipirina and vigilant expectations” for mild COVID-19 cases.His current advice aligns with this approach,advocating for sensible medication use rather than indiscriminate dosing.
Why the Misinterpretation?
The confusion arose when a screenshot of the article’s headline was shared on Facebook with a misleading caption:
«Councilor for companions! This year Paracetamol (Tachipirina) can do enormous damage! and even this time the conspiracy theorists were right…»
This interpretation, however, is incorrect. Bassetti’s message remains consistent: medications like paracetamol should be used judiciously to avoid unnecessary risks.
Key Takeaways
To summarize the key points:
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Prudent Use of Paracetamol | Bassetti advises against excessive or unnecessary use of paracetamol to avoid potential harm. |
| Consistency with Pandemic Advice | His current recommendations align with his earlier advice during the COVID-19 pandemic. |
| Misinterpretation on Social Media | Some social media posts incorrectly framed his statements as a “step back.” |
Listen to the Source
For those seeking clarity, Rai News provides the full interview where Bassetti explains his stance in detail. His message is clear: medications are not candies and should be used with care.
As the influenza season peaks, it’s crucial to follow expert advice and avoid falling prey to misinterpretations. Professor Bassetti’s recommendations are a reminder to approach medication use with caution and common sense.
The flu season has likely peaked, but cases are expected to persist in the coming weeks, according to expert advice from Matteo Bassetti. His insights emphasize the importance of proper medication use, especially paracetamol, a widely used antipyretic for managing fever. However, Bassetti warns against common mistakes in its governance, which can lead to serious health complications.
when and How to Use Paracetamol
Bassetti highlights that paracetamol is highly effective in reducing fever but should only be taken when the body temperature exceeds 38.5°C. “LetS take it to drop the fever,” he advises. A critical mistake, he notes, is taking paracetamol on a fixed schedule, such as every 8 or 12 hours, nonetheless of symptoms. This approach is unnecessary and perhaps harmful.
Overuse of paracetamol can lead to severe side effects. “If you take too high doses over 2.5 or 3 grams per day, it can also cause liver problems, stomach issues, and renal problems,” Bassetti cautions. Proper dosage and timing are essential to avoid these risks.
Managing the Flu at Home
Bassetti stresses that the flu is typically a condition that can be managed at home. “the flu is treated at home, so don’t make the mistake of going to the hospital for care unless there are severe respiratory problems or significant compromises to general health,” he explains. His first piece of advice is simple: Stay at home.
He also warns against the overuse of medications. “Drugs must be taken when they are needed, such as when there is a fever or serious inflammation,” he says. Additionally, he strongly advises against the use of antibiotics for the flu. “antibiotics in the flu are not needed. The flu is a viral infection, so antibiotics do not work. indeed, they risk making bacteria resistant to antibiotics,” he adds.
Key Takeaways
To summarize Bassetti’s recommendations, here’s a table outlining the dos and don’ts for managing the flu:
| Do | Don’t |
|—————————————|—————————————-|
| Take paracetamol only when fever exceeds 38.5°C | Take paracetamol on a fixed schedule |
| stay at home unless symptoms are severe | Rush to the hospital unnecessarily |
| Use medications only when necessary | Overuse medications |
| Avoid antibiotics for viral infections | Take antibiotics for the flu |
Final Thoughts
bassetti’s advice aligns with established guidelines for treating non-severe viral infections, including the flu. His emphasis on responsible medication use and home care is particularly relevant during peak flu season. For more information on combating misinformation, check out the Meta project aimed at addressing false news on social platforms.
By following these guidelines, individuals can manage flu symptoms effectively while minimizing risks associated with improper medication use.
Expert Advice on Managing Flu and Sensible Medication Use
The flu season has likely peaked, but cases are expected to persist in the coming weeks, according to expert advice from Matteo Bassetti. His insights emphasize the importance of proper medication use, especially paracetamol, a widely used antipyretic for managing fever. Though, Bassetti warns against common mistakes in its use, which can lead to serious health complications.
When and How to Use Paracetamol
bassetti highlights that paracetamol is highly effective in reducing fever but shoudl only be taken when the body temperature exceeds 38.5°C. “let’s take it to drop the fever,” he advises. A critical mistake, he notes, is taking paracetamol on a fixed schedule, such as every 8 or 12 hours, irrespective of symptoms.This approach is needless and perhaps harmful.
Overuse of paracetamol can lead to severe side effects. “If you take too high doses over 2.5 or 3 grams per day, it can also cause liver problems, stomach issues, and renal problems,” Bassetti cautions. Proper dosage and timing are essential to avoid these risks.
Managing the flu at Home
Bassetti stresses that the flu is typically a condition that can be managed at home. “The flu is treated at home, so don’t make the mistake of going to the hospital for care unless there are severe respiratory problems or important compromises to general health,” he explains. His first piece of advice is simple: Stay at home.
He also warns against the overuse of medications. “Drugs must be taken when they are needed, such as when there is a fever or serious inflammation,” he says. Additionally, he strongly advises against the use of antibiotics for the flu. “Antibiotics in the flu are not needed. The flu is a viral infection, so antibiotics do not work. Indeed, they risk making bacteria resistant to antibiotics,” he adds.
Key Takeaways
To summarize Bassetti’s recommendations, here’s a table outlining the dos and don’ts for managing the flu:
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Take paracetamol only when fever exceeds 38.5°C | Take paracetamol on a fixed schedule |
| Stay at home unless symptoms are severe | Rush to the hospital unnecessarily |
| Use medications only when necessary | Overuse medications |
| Avoid antibiotics for viral infections | Take antibiotics for the flu |
Final Thoughts
Bassetti’s advice aligns with established guidelines for treating non-severe viral infections, including the flu. His emphasis on responsible medication use and home care is particularly relevant during peak flu season. For more facts on combating misinformation, check out the Meta project aimed at addressing false news on social platforms.
By following these guidelines, individuals can manage flu symptoms effectively while minimizing risks associated with improper medication use.
