Respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis and influenza 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.
The latest figures published by the Argentine Ministry of Health in the Epidemiological Bulletin show 531,596 cases of influenza-like illness (ILI), 89,031 cases of pneumonia, 117,836 cases of bronchiolitis and 10,131 hospitalizations among children under the age of two. Acute respiratory infection (SARI). Likewise, it was revealed that among the samples analyzed by rt-PCR, the outpatient surveillance unit epidemiological week had a positive rate of 9.47% for SARS-CoV-2, 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 diseases during this time period were pneumonia, accounting for 40% of positive cases, bronchiolitis, 30%, and influenza, 20%. “These diseases not only pose a health risk, but groups such as young children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems or people with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and immunosuppression may be further affected,” explains Leandro Crisostomo. Boreal Salud Clinician (MP 3850).
influenza
Common viral infections can be fatal, especially in high-risk groups.
Influenza affects the lungs, nose and throat. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems are at greatest risk.
Symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headache and fatigue.
Treatment for the flu consists mainly of rest and hydration so the body can fight the infection on its own. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain relievers can help relieve symptoms. Getting vaccinated annually can prevent influenza and reduce its complications. It spreads in various ways. It can be partially prevented by vaccines. Generally, no medical attention is required, but self-diagnosis is possible.Rarely requires laboratory tests or imaging studies
How it spreads:
Flying (cough or sneeze)
By touching contaminated surfaces.
through saliva (kissing or sharing a drink)
By direct skin-to-skin contact (handshake or hug)
pneumonia
This disease causes the air sacs to fill with fluid or pus. This infection can be fatal for anyone, but especially for infants, young children, and adults over 65 years of age. Symptoms include coughing up sputum or pus, fever, chills, and shortness of breath. Antibiotics can treat all types of pneumonia, and some can be prevented through vaccination. Some types can be prevented with vaccines. A professional doctor can treat, but his diagnosis is required. Lab tests or imaging studies are always required. Its transmission is through the air. Acute: Heals within days or weeks.
Bronchiolitis
Inflammatory bronchial responses in infants and young children. Bronchiolitis is almost always caused by a virus. The disease usually occurs most often in winter. The disease begins as a common cold. The condition progresses until coughing, wheezing, and sometimes difficulty breathing occur. Symptoms can last from a week to a month.
In most cases, bronchiolitis can be treated with home care. The most severe cases require hospitalization.
Professional doctors can treat and diagnose.Rarely requires laboratory tests or imaging studies
It spreads in several ways:
Flying (cough or sneeze)
through saliva (kissing or sharing a drink)
By direct skin-to-skin contact (handshake or hug)
So, experts share some tips for preventing seasonal illnesses:
Flu vaccination: Consulting a health professional and getting a flu shot are key strategies to protect yourself and reduce the spread of the virus.
Cleanliness and Hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water, use hand sanitizer, and keep shared spaces clean.
Balanced diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to disease.
Adequate ventilation: Keep confined spaces well-ventilated and avoid sudden changes in temperature when entering a hot environment.
Primary Health Care: Regular visits to your doctor and receiving proper diagnosis, prevention, treatment and recovery are critical to the management of any disease.
It’s important to pay attention to warning signs that may indicate something more serious than the flu or the common cold. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop persistent symptoms such as persistent high fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, parallel family spread, or gradual deterioration of your general condition. These signs may indicate complications that require prompt evaluation and treatment.
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.
About Northern Health
The Argentine company has more than 20 years of experience in the health market, providing health insurance to more than 250,000 employees in the Central, Cuyo, Northwest and Coast regions. It has more than 30 branches and an extensive network of doctors and professionals, including its own medical center equipped with the latest technology. Its services include an extensive network of healthcare providers and nursing homes; pharmacy discounts, free hospital admissions, high complexities, a telemedicine platform, digital credentials and the Boreal mobile app that authorizes consultations and medical practices through mobile phones, among others. For more information visit www.borealsalud.com.ar
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