Though more and more people stay indoors during winter, experts hint at a higher possibility of people contracting both influenza and Covid-19 infections during the winter season.
The fast-approaching season of coughs and sniffles has the healthcare professionals worried about the situation getting worse. It is very common for seasonal infections caused by respiratory viruses like influenza to rise in winter.
As initial evidence suggests that Covid-19 favors the cold, dry, and low sunlight conditions. The virus degrades much faster on surfaces in humid or warmer environments.
The temperature is expected to drop further in the coming days. During winters, the body heat usually experiences a drop as the environment cools. At the same time, the body is adjusting to the new climate.
As a result, the change in the process is demonstrated through a number of diseases. Adults as well as children are very susceptible to the change in the climate.
Here are some expert tips to lower the risk of developing these two viral diseases-
Steam Inhalation– ‘Winter season, being a season of flu, common cold poses a peculiar challenge during COVID-19 pandemic and rising pollution levels. Steam inhalation will help you to get rid of all sorts of respiratory issues by effectively reducing nasal congestion and clearing mucus out of your lungs’, said Dr. Rajesh Chawla, senior pulmonologist and critical care specialist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.
Using Gamma Oryzanol– Gamma oryzanol is a substance that is taken out of rice barn oil. It is also found in wheat bran and fruits and vegetables.
S.P. Byotra, Chairman, Department of Internal Medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi told “To keep your body immune and healthy, using natural anti-oxidants like Gamma Oryzanol has many health benefits including boosting immunity as it neutralizes free radicals in the body.”
Green Vegetables- Leafy vegetables are packed with fiber, micronutrients like vitamin A, C, and K, minerals like potassium, magnesium, iron, et al. Veggies such as broccoli, spinach, and spinach are also high in antioxidants.
“Adequate intake of citrus fruits and green leafy vegetable supplies much-needed antioxidants to the body to fight viral infections,” said Harshal R. Salve, Associate Professor at Centre for Community Medicine.
Diagnosis on time may aid quicker recovery
As the novel coronavirus continues to unfold at an alarming rate, if you experience any cold or flu-like symptoms, it’s best to follow Covid-appropriate behavior. It’s very necessary to be careful with any uncommon symptom in your body. During the initial days, Covid-19 was considered to be just a respiratory disease but now it’s documented that the virus will impact many components of the body, from head-to-toe.
It’s very important to teach yourself regarding the potential symptoms of Covid-19 and take the appropriate measures of self-isolation.
Most people won’t have severe illness and will be able to recover at home if get the test done on time by monitoring Covid-19 symptoms.