Influenza and Influenza A, Covid-19 and colds are responsible for more than 70% of emergency room visits today, an increase caused by gatherings of friends and family during the Christmas holidays, if anything, cases are likely to increase Quirónsalud Córdoba Dr. Francisco Sánchez, director of the hospital’s emergency department, said someone was infected.
Dr. Sánchez explained that emergencies caused by various respiratory infections have increased in recent days, “up to more than 70% and rising”, with the highest incidence expected in the coming weeks. In this sense, he insisted “not to forget the importance of the protective measures we took at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, which have proven to have great results in reducing infections.”
The doctor recalled, “We took measures to reduce cases, such as vaccinating high-risk groups against influenza and Covid-19. In addition, if you develop symptoms and travel to crowded places, use masks, ventilate confined spaces, keep your hands Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding contact with vulnerable people are proven recommendations to help reduce infection and protect us.”
In any case, cold increases the risk of respiratory infections, since at this time the nasal mucosa dries out due to low temperatures, thereby reducing its function as a barrier to the entry of these viruses. Hypothermia impairs the function of our immune systems, and today we spend more time in enclosed spaces with other people, which facilitates the airborne spread of microorganisms.
The most common illness in winter is the common cold, caused by a variety of respiratory viruses that cause inflammation of the throat and nasal passages. It’s important to treat colds well because they can sometimes lead to more serious illnesses, such as otitis media, pneumonia, and bronchitis.
Influenza is the most common viral infection in the winter, and there has been an increase in influenza A cases this year. The flu process can present with muscle aches, fever, fatigue, mucus in the nose, and a feeling of suffocation. It is important to consult because in some cases Pneumonia may develop and require hospitalization. Pneumonia is caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection that produces a high fever and a feeling of suffocation. Diagnosis requires a chest X-ray and auscultation by a doctor. This is currently one of the most common reasons for admission to hospital, particularly in children, the elderly, or patients with pre-existing bronchial pathology.
Covid-19 infection can cause flu-like symptoms. Diagnosing it is important to prevent the spread of the virus within the family, especially during these holidays and if there are susceptible people. Acute laryngitis, acute pharyngeal tonsillitis and acute bronchitis are the most common respiratory diseases today.
Dr. Sanchez insists that if you develop symptoms such as high fever, shortness of breath (dyspnea), and/or chest pain that doesn’t go away with commonly used fever-reducing drugs (acetaminophen, ibuprofen), it’s best to seek medical attention. emergency room. , as these symptoms may indicate respiratory complications, such as pneumonia.