Here’s How to Prevent Respiratory Infections During Winters

Winters have arrived!

Finally, the much-awaited season is here. Winters. The dipping temperatures have swooshed in like a breath of fresh air, confirming the arrival of winter.  Let’s delve deeper into the information you've always wanted to know about. Dive in! 

Common Cold Symptoms

The refreshing cold breeze does leave some of us plagued with respiratory infections such as sneezing, runny nose, coughing, and sore throat—these common cold symptoms usually last for 7 days. Flu translates into body aches, and fever sending chills down your spine. 

Lack of adequate care may lead to bronchitis causing wheezing and yellow phlegm.  Additionally, it may cause Pneumonia, worsening of respiratory medical conditions such as Heart, Asthma and lung diseases, ear, sinus, and dehydration problems. 

Preventive Measures

According to popular research and observation, a myriad of respiratory infections originate from viruses like Adenovirus, Rhino Virus, Influenza, Respiratory syncytial virus and parainfluenza to name a few. These types of viruses are highly contagious and spread from one individual to another through contact or aerosols.

During a sneeze or cough, the drops are carried out into the air spreading germs inhaled by individuals around causing infection. 

Some of the other preventive measures are:

• Keep your body hydrated properly.
• Intake of green leafy vegetables and fruits for sufficient antioxidant supply to your body.
•  Take enough sleep and de-stress the spiritual way. 
• Opt for homemade food while refraining from junk food. 
• Take a balanced diet and do regular exercise. 
• Get frequent or annual health checks done. Should you face any symptoms of a common cold or flu, consult your healthcare expert.

Keeping germs at bay

• 
  To begin with, don’t forget your mask amidst public places or large gatherings. Opt for a surgical mask or a cloth mask. 
• Refrain from touching your eyes, nose and mouth. 
• Wash your hands with clean soap and water frequently adhering to the 20 seconds guidelines. You can use alcohol-based sanitizer when there is a dearth of soap and water. 
• Keep a safe distance from infected people who have a virus or flu. Restrict your contact if you are ill. 
• Cover your mouth while sneezing or coughing. Make use of tissue paper or your elbow instead of your hands. Thoroughly wash your hands after sneezing or coughing. Used tissue papers should be disposed of, after use. 
• Constrict yourself from exchanging personal items such as towels or handkerchiefs, combs etc. 
• Restrain yourself from attending social get-togethers and crowded places. 
• Maintain a spick-and-span environment.
• Avoid smoking and passive smoking. 

Busting Popular Myths

Myth: Flu and Common Cold heal automatically sans medical consultation.

Fact: Even though many respiratory infections can go away within a few weeks, they can cause underlying medical complications and can be lethal for health, at times. Therefore, adequate treatment and medical consultation at the initial stage is a necessity, to prevent any major health crisis.

Myth: Every Flu and common cold can be self-diagnosed with antibiotics alone. 

Fact: Many types of Flu and Common Colds stem from respiratory viruses that do not respond to antibiotics prescribed for bacterial infections.  Self-medication can not only be a waste of time but also might cause viral infection complications or several reactions. Take antibiotics only after a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. 

How to look after your sick family member?

• Maintain a social distance up to 3-6 feet.
• Caregivers need to follow strict medical and sanitation guidelines such as wearing masks when around a sick person. 
• Refrain from coming in proximity to the sick person such as hugging, shaking hands, touching, kissing etc. 
• The ill person should be quarantined in a separate room, if conducive, 
• Thorough disinfection of home, frequently.

Diagnosis

Manipal TRUtest provides comprehensive diagnostic services with assured quality, accuracy, and trust backed by 70 years of Manipal legacy. You can choose wide from our wide array of test menu including CBC, Influenza (Flu),Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Arterial Blood Gases. Get Home Sample Collection and a well-qualified phlebotomist shall visit you in the comfort of your home.