August 14, 2023 – 10:20
During a given winter season characterized by large thermal amplitudes and abrupt climate changes, the chances of contracting seasonal diseases typical of these months increase.
Respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis and flu increase significantly this time of year as viruses and bacteria find environments conducive to spreading when people tend to spend more time indoors and with poor ventilation. However, there are ways to prevent them with proper hygiene, a complete vaccination program, and proper nutrition.
According to the latest data published by the Argentine Ministry of Health in the National Epidemiological Bulletin N.661 SE 28 | In 2023, there will be 531,596 cases of ILI (influenza-type illness), 89,031 cases of pneumonia, 117,836 cases of bronchiolitis and 10,131 cases of Hospitalized acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases. Likewise, it was revealed that among the samples analyzed by rt-PCR, the positive rate of SARS-CoV-2 in the Epidemiological Week (SE) 28/2023 of the Outpatient Surveillance Unit was 9.47%, 16.46% for Influenza and 2.70% for RSV . In addition, 43 people have died from flu diagnoses so far this year.
“We can see that the most common disease at this time of year is pneumonia, accounting for 40% of positive cases, bronchiolitis 30%, and influenza 20%. People with weaker systems or with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and immunosuppression may also be further affected,” explains clinician Leandro Crisostomo.
In this sense, experts share some advice for preventing seasonal diseases.
1. Flu vaccination: Seeing a health professional and getting a flu shot are key strategies for protecting yourself and reducing the spread of the virus.
2. Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, use hand sanitizer, and keep shared spaces clean.
3. Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to disease.
4. Adequate ventilation: Keep the confined space well ventilated and avoid sudden changes in temperature when entering a hot environment.
5. Primary health care: Regular visits to a doctor and proper diagnosis, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation are essential to the management of any disease.
“It is important to be aware of the warning signs that may indicate a more serious illness than the flu or the common cold. If you develop persistent symptoms such as a persistent high fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, parallel spread between families, or a gradual worsening of your general condition, seek immediate medical attention. Seek medical attention. These signs may indicate complications that require prompt evaluation and treatment,” the doctor added.
Protecting yourself during winter is not just something to do during this time, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition, regular exercise, staying hydrated and consulting with a health professional over the years is vital. This allows for an adequate diagnosis of any complications and an individualized treatment plan.