this Influenza and Influenza A, Covid-19cold these days causes More than 70% of emergency consultationsDr. Francisco Sánchez, director of the emergency department at Quirónsalud Córdoba Hospital, said gatherings of friends and family during the Christmas holidays can exacerbate the situation and cases could increase if someone becomes infected.
Sanchez explained that in recent days there has been an increase in emergencies due to Various respiratory infections, “up to more than 70% and rising”, with the highest incidence rate expected in the coming weeks. The doctor insisted “not to forget the importance of the protective measures we put in place at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, which have proven to have huge 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, Use of face mask “If you have symptoms and travel to crowded places, ventilating confined spaces, practicing hand hygiene and avoiding contact with vulnerable people are recommendations that have been shown to be effective in helping to 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 system Today, we spend more and more time in enclosed spaces with other people, which facilitates the airborne spread of microorganisms.
The most common diseases in winter are common cold, caused by a variety of respiratory viruses, causes 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 during the winter, and cases have increased this year. Influenza A.The flu course is characterized by muscle aches, fever, fatigue, nasal mucus, and suffocating feelingthis is important 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.
this COVID-19 infection It presents with 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.