Winter Illness
As winter descends, unfortunately certain respiratory illnesses spike. This is due to a few factors:
Respiratory viruses thrive in cold, dry environments. More importantly, our skin dries out and cracks and does not act as an efficient barrier, especially for our nostrils and throats.
We spend more time indoors, which increases close contact with others and therefore increases the likelihood of spreading disease.
Often our Vitamin D levels tend to drop from less sun exposure, which can weaken the immune system.
There are several categories of transmissible respiratory illness, but the most common category is viral. Viruses do not respond to antibiotics. Some common viruses are:
Adenovirus ( "the common cold")
Influenza
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
COVID-19
There are medicines available which can lessen the symptoms of these viruses, but they are not curative. Your body fights the viruses with your own healthy immune response.
There are also conditions such as pneumonia and bronchitis, which can be caused by either a virus or a bacteria. Bacterial infections often require antibiotics. One common bacterial infection is strep throat, which in children especially requires antibiotics to prevent rheumatic fever and other consequences. Medical attention may be necessary to determine what kind of illness you have, and to create a proper treatment plan, especially if you have a fever lasting more than a few days.
Prevention is always the best method of self care. Take these steps to stay healthy during the winter and avoid unwanted sick days:
Consistently wash your hands with warm water and soap.
Stay well hydrated. Help your skin do its work as a barrier to intrusive infections.
Take supplements (vitamin C and D) to help strengthen your immune function.
Eat healthy, balanced meals.
Make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations.
Stay safe this winter season!
