Fight Seasonal Illnesses

Currently, Nepal is gripped with a wave of respiratory illnesses, particularly the common cold, influenza and flu. Just as the cold season is bidding adieu, there has been a surge in such viral respiratory illnesses, which have alarmed the population in general. It is quite common to experience respiratory illnesses during the colder months. There are several causes for it. During winter, humidity is low as the air tends to be drier, which in turn can dry out the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. This enables viruses to easily enter the body and cause infections.

 Likewise, during cold months, there is a rise in indoor crowding, which increases the likelihood of transmission of the virus from one person to the next. Further, the immune system is weakened in colder temperatures as the cold can put stress on the body making it vulnerable to infections. Viruses can thrive in colder and drier temperatures, particularly the influenza viruses which too add to the increase in respiratory illnesses in the winter.

But the winter season is receding in Nepal with the advent of basanta, i.e. spring season. Then why are viral respiratory infections on the rise? It is due to the seasonal transition from winter to spring, which gives rise to temperature fluctuations. In seasonal transitions, temperatures tend to vary widely from day to day and such fluctuations can add stress to the body, weakening the immune system and making the body prone to virus infections. Likewise, allergies prevail widely due to seasonal change, which in turn causes inflammation of the respiratory tract. 

Then, there are the changes in humidity levels, which are likely to vary in the transition of seasons, increasing the stability and transmission of respiratory viruses. As people are seen sneezing and coughing with fever and bodily aches, viral infections have become a nuisance for many. Most people have had to take medicines with advice to rest and recuperate. They may have had to take leave from work or study. Particularly, the elderly and the very young are vulnerable to such viral colds, which is why they are advised to take great care. 

Between steam bathing, hot water intake and medicines, people are quite harangued with this seasonal cold, influenza and flu. Hospitals are crowded with such patients and even doctors aren’t spared. Given the bodily distresses that such viral respiratory infections cause, what could be the adequate prevention and treatment? Health experts suggest wearing masks, especially in crowded places. Avoiding cold and iced drinks and foods is a must. Likewise, take due caution against the seasonal allergies by using humidifiers and air purifiers, avoiding mold, pollen and dust mites and even using masks. 

Drink hot to warm liquids such as green and lemon tea, soups, herbal concoctions, etc. Incorporate a healthy and balanced diet to boost the immune system with added servings of antioxidant-rich foods. Hydration is necessary to flush out bodily toxins. While most cases of such infections fade away on their own, some might necessitate medical consultations. Being ill isn’t a pleasant experience but with the right preventive measures, it can be avoided. And in case you do fall ill to respiratory infections and if required, don’t hesitate to take medical consultations.