We usually associate the flu with seasonal issues, more to do with the colder months, but the question we’re asking is whether you can get the flu in the summer. “Although it is possible to get the flu in the summer The most common is cold. The flu and summer colds are the same illnesses you can get at any time of the year; often the only thing that differs is what causes it.The most common reasons in summer are sudden change in temperature We suffer between the outdoors and air-conditioned places (homes, offices, shops, restaurants)… Air conditioning irritates our nasal mucosa and promotes the entry of rhinoviruses, the main culprits of colds,” he commented. Jose Antonio Valdez Gonzalez, pharmacist and natural products researcher at Lanier Pharma. The fact is that, in most cases, the viruses that cause this so-called “summer flu” are usually different from the viruses that cause epidemic outbreaks during the coldest months. But these symptoms can ruin our vacation.
“In addition, when we get sick in the summer, as soon as there are signs of improvement, the vast majority of people become careless and do not complete the recovery process, which leads to subsequent relapse. At this time, it is also important to prepare our immune system so that it can be strong and protected. ” he suggested.
Also Read: How to Treat a Cold?
Have a rest even in summer
“If you have symptoms of the flu or common cold, you need plenty of rest to fully recover and regain your strength. You can live a normal life, but don’t overdo it: You should rehydrate with fresh water rather than ice; avoid energy drinks or alcoholic beverages and sudden changes in spaces to different temperatures; eat a balanced diet, esp. Iron-Containing Nutrients, Vitamin C and Zinc to ensure your immune system is protected and stronger than ever.Also take advantage of the fact that in the summer you can open the windows and thus have More airy space“suggestion.
One of the things we asked ourselves to think about was whether the fact that we live in a more globalized society, traveling around the world (given that it’s the depths of winter in the Southern Hemisphere), might influence more spread of the virus. “In recent years, we have seen an unprecedented increase in diseases affecting the respiratory system. Furthermore, these diseases affect not just a single hemisphere or region of the Earth, but everywhere, as a result of living in a more globalized, There is an increasing trend of moving from one place to another And (not always) take the necessary precautions against certain illnesses. But as far as the flu or cold go, they are not serious illnesses and you are as likely to catch them in our country as you are in any other country. I don’t think globalization has an impact on the increase in these diseases during the summer,” experts believe.
Also read: Respiratory viruses on the prowl: How to fight symptoms and prevent contagion?
Differentiate between cold and flu
In fact, as we said, the main thing at this time is the cold. “The most obvious difference between the two illnesses is the intensity of symptoms. Unlike a cold, Flu is more severe and debilitating and may cause a high fever for three days or longer. Another difference is that the flu comes on suddenly and its symptoms can last one to two weeks. Instead, the cold comes gradually and lasts for a shorter period of time. ” he told us.
The expert commented: “The symptoms of the flu are the same, whether in summer or in any season. In addition to general malaise (a typical symptom during any viral infection), it also exhibits symptoms that are easily identifiable.” Summarized as follows:
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fever: Normally, the temperature is only a few tenths of a degree, reaching 37℃-37.5℃, but the summer is hot and the heat sensation is higher. Although a high fever is not present, chills and general overheating are common.
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Cough and dry throat: You may have a slight cough without phlegm, and your throat may be dry and inflamed. This may cause discomfort when trying to eat.
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Congestion and lots of mucus: The mucus is thin but frequent.
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sneeze: Sneezing is frequent, especially in the early stages of a cold, which is why it is often confused with allergies.
“There are no more serious complications from getting the flu in the summer than at any other time. The only thing we have to have Pay special attention to dehydration, which may be more severe in summer. Although it is true that getting the flu is more “annoying” in the summer because you have to rest when you want to make plans outside, you have to avoid drinking very cold drinks and skipping the beach or swimming pool until you recover…”, he details.
Also read: Have you noticed your allergies are getting worse due to climate change?Here are eight mitigation strategies
prevention tips
What advice would experts give to prevent these flu and cold symptoms in the summer? “One of the main pieces of advice is to avoid sudden changes in internal and external temperatures in any space. Many times, We are beyond the scope of air conditioningand excessively cold drinks. Other tips we recommend are as follows:
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You must maintain a Air humidity above 30%, which is necessary to prevent dry mucous membranes and colds. We recommend getting a humidifier in your home or workplace, you will notice the difference!
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Food is also key Avoid colds if possible, as essential micronutrients can help protect you. Fruits and vegetables are your allies.
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Stay well hydrated: In the hot summer weather, we tend to sweat and therefore become dehydrated, so it’s important to stay well hydrated. In addition, attention must be paid to certain groups, such as the elderly or young children.
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Use natural supplements To prevent viral and bacterial infections.