Get Cold and flu Treatment in Istanbul Airport from a 24/7 On-Call Doctor Near You
Looking for help with cold and flu in Istanbul Airport? Speak to a doctor by video at any hour, receive an e-prescription if treatment is appropriate and collect your medicine locally in Istanbul.
Key facts
| Location | Istanbul Airport, Istanbul |
|---|---|
| When | Around the clock |
| Physician | Dr. Elif Yasbala (English, German, Turkish) |
| Best for | Travellers, tourists and expats |
| Format | Online doctor consultation by video |
| Outcome | E-prescription if appropriate |
| Topic | Cold and flu |
Istanbul Airport: local notes for cold and flu
Istanbul Airport is a major hub, so layover travellers often need advice quickly between flights. Packed metros, ferries and attractions spread cold and flu viruses. Rest, drink fluids and ask us if you are due to fly.
Travel guide to Istanbul Airport
Trip for travellers: Istanbul Airport is best explored on foot, with cafes, markets and historic sights close together. Allow time for shopping and use ferries or taxis between sights.
For visitors from the UK, Australia, the US and New Zealand
- No language barrier: Dr. Yasbala consults in English, so you can describe symptoms naturally.
- Emergency number: dial 112 in Turkey, not 999, 000, 111 or 911.
- Medicine names differ: paracetamol is called acetaminophen in the US, and brands in Turkey differ from home. Tell the doctor what you normally take, or send a photo of the packet.
- Insurance: check your travel policy before treatment and keep the invoice and prescription we send you.
- Any time zone: the on-demand doctor is available 24/7, whatever the time is back home.
Why cold and flu happens
Viruses spread by droplets and by touching contaminated surfaces. Busy transport hubs, planes, hotels and shared buffets make infection simple on a trip.
How cold and flu feels
- Fever and chills (more typical of flu)
- Cough
- Sneezing and sore throat
- Body aches and tiredness
What is cold and flu?
Both the common cold and flu are caused by viruses and clear up in the nose, throat and chest. Colds creep in gradually and are normally mild, whereas flu often begins abruptly with a high temperature and heavy aching.
Treatment options for cold and flu in Istanbul Airport
The doctor can tell whether your symptoms fit a viral illness, rule out more serious causes, suggest symptom relief and advise whether it is sensible to fly or travel on. Antibiotics are kept for bacterial complications because they have no effect on viruses. Options may include rest, fluids, paracetamol or ibuprofen, saline nasal spray and throat lozenges.
- Wash hands often and cover coughs
- Saline nasal spray or steam to ease congestion
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and aches, as directed on the pack, if suitable for you
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids
How it works: cold and flu care in Istanbul Airport
- Write to us, say how you feel and where you are in Istanbul Airport.
- You talk to the doctor face to face on video, with no waiting room.
- The doctor sends any prescription straight to your WhatsApp or inbox.
- Pick up the medicine at a local pharmacy.
- If symptoms continue, message us for a follow-up.
Prevention tips
Wash hands commonly, avoid touching your face, keep your distance from people who are ill and consider the seasonal flu vaccine before you travel.
If you think it is an emergency, call 112 straight away. Video consultations are not meant for urgent life-threatening problems.
Common questions about cold and flu in Istanbul Airport
Can I get cold and flu treatment in Istanbul Airport?
Yes. An on-demand doctor is available 24/7 by video anywhere in Istanbul Airport, and the e-prescription can be used at a local pharmacy.
When should I see a doctor in person for cold and flu?
Get urgent help for breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips, neck stiffness, fever beyond three days, or an illness that gets better and then suddenly deteriorates.
Will I receive a prescription for cold and flu?
If treatment is appropriate, yes. The doctor sends an e-prescription by WhatsApp or email that you show at any pharmacy in Istanbul Airport. Controlled substances cannot be prescribed online.
What should I have ready for the video visit?
A stable internet connection, your medicine list, any allergies and your insurance details. Photos of the affected area help.
Which pharmacy should I use in Istanbul Airport?
Any pharmacy (eczane) will accept an e-prescription. If it is late, ask a nearby pharmacy for the on-duty one.
Which languages does the doctor speak?
You can talk to the doctor in English, German or Turkish.
Is cold and flu common among visitors to Istanbul Airport?
Long days of walking and crowded transport in Istanbul Airport mean cold and flu is a frequent request from visitors.
Also asked about in Istanbul Airport
Istanbul Airport through the year
In Istanbul Airport, the cold, damp months bring colds and flu on crowded transport, while summer brings heat, blisters and street-food stomach bugs.
References
- NHS. Common cold
- NHS. Flu
Reviewed by Dr. Elif Yasbala, MD. Use this as general guidance; your own doctor’s advice always comes first.
What We Treat in Istanbul Airport
Doctors for cold and flu elsewhere in Istanbul
Read the full guide to cold and flu · Find a doctor in Istanbul Airport