Preventing and Controlling Influenza

Influenza: A Serious Respiratory Disease

A person recovers with the return of winter, rainy days, and the smell of the earth after the rain. This is a saying that many winter lovers repeat, including me. But this season, despite its splendor, is not without some diseases and health problems that spoil the mood.

Among these diseases, we mention influenza and colds; These are diseases related to the respiratory system in particular, and are represented by varying symptoms, including fever, headache, lung infections, and others. Some of these symptoms may disappear with time and treatment, while others develop into serious conditions that threaten the need for hospitalization. This requires taking some preventive measures to prevent these diseases, or at least, mitigate them.

Influenza: A Respiratory Infection

According to the Mayo Clinic website, influenza is an infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs, the most prominent parts of the respiratory system. Influenza is caused by infection with a virus, and this type of influenza differs from stomach “flu” viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.

Most flu patients get better on their own, even without treatment. But for others, flu complications can be fatal in many cases. There are groups more susceptible to influenza complications, including:

Young children, especially those 12 months or younger.
Women who are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or have recently given birth during flu season.
Adults over 65 years of age.
People who live or work in facilities where there are many other residents.
People residing in nursing homes or military barracks, as well as people confined to hospitals.
People with a weak immune system.
People with a body mass index of 40 or higher.
People with nervous system disorders or conditions that change how the brain processes information.

Influenza and Colds are More Common in Winter.. and the Reason

Cold air in winter has a strong effect on the nose’s immune response. Therefore, a drop in temperature in the nose of 5 degrees Celsius kills 50% of the cells resistant to viruses and bacteria in the nostrils. This is what an American study conducted by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology concluded. The study confirmed that cold air is associated with an increase in viral infections, because the body has lost only half of its immunity as a result of the slight drop in temperature. This reduces the ability of the immune system to fight respiratory infections by half, and is essentially enough to eliminate all the immune advantages that the nose enjoys, according to what was reported by the “Sky News Arabia” website.

Women are More Susceptible to Influenza than Men… for these Reasons

This is the conclusion reached by another study, which investigated which genders are more susceptible to influenza infection. One study concluded that women are more tired and affected by severe flu symptoms than men.

During the study, researchers compared influenza symptoms between more than 100 men and women. The results showed that influenza symptoms in men were milder than those in women, as stated on the Mayo Clinic website.

Tips for Preventing or Controlling Influenza

Vaccines, especially the influenza vaccine, remain the best way to ward off the dangers of winter illnesses. Although the effectiveness of this annual vaccine is not 100% guaranteed, it helps reduce the chances of severe complications of influenza infection. This is especially necessary for people who are most at risk of developing influenza complications, which we mentioned in a previous paragraph.

Researchers also identified 11 tricks or recipes to prevent and survive the dangers of the cold season and the seasonal flu that will knock on our doors this winter.

Conclusion

The beauty of winter in the Gulf region is only marred by some diseases such as influenza. However, following the protective measures recommended by experts, especially taking the influenza vaccine, personal hygiene, rest, and drinking some warm drinks, contributes significantly and effectively to reducing the risks of influenza and its repercussions on health.

FAQs

Q: How can I prevent influenza?
A: You can take the influenza vaccine, practice good personal hygiene, get enough sleep, and drink some warm drinks.

Q: Who is more susceptible to influenza?
A: Women are more susceptible to influenza than men, especially those who are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or have recently given birth during flu season.

Q: What are some natural remedies for colds and flu?
A: You can try drinking some mixtures, such as honey and ginger, and hot water, or gargling with salt and warm water, and inhaling steam to relieve congestion and clean the sinuses.

Q: Can I prevent influenza by taking vitamin C?
A: While vitamin C is important for overall health, there is no scientific evidence that it can prevent influenza.