Respiratory infections in winter Emerging challenges better suggestions to reduce mortality and morbidity Formulated by Dr.T.V.Rao MD @ Better health

Respiratory infections in winter Emerging challenges better suggestions to reduce mortality and morbidity

Formulated by Dr.T.V.Rao MD @ Better health solutions

The recent uptick in cases of seasonal flu, rhinovirus, RSV, and hMPV in China aligns with typical seasonal patterns, as confirmed by the World Health Organisation (WHO)

Colds, flus and other respiratory illnesses are often more common in colder months. People are indoors more often, allowing viruses to pass more easily from one person to another. And the cold, dry air may weaken resistance.

impact of Cold Weather on Respiratory Health

Worsening of Existing Conditions: Cold air can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. Cold air can cause airway constriction and irritation, making it harder to breathe, especially for people with these conditions.

Increased Risk of Respiratory Infections: Cold weather is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections like the common cold, flu, and pneumonia. Cold, dry air can weaken the body's immune response, making individuals more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections.

Airway Constriction: Breathing in cold air can cause the airways to narrow and constrict, leading to difficulty breathing, especially for people with sensitive airways or conditions like exercise-induced asthma. Need

What are the Various Reasons For An Increase In Respiratory Tract Infection Cases In Winter?

Experts have associated the weather with a higher incidence of upper respiratory infection because of increased respiratory viruses. Also, your susceptibility to respiratory viruses increases when the temperatures and humidity decrease. It is backed up by a recent study that shows that cold temperatures result in a decline in the immune system due to the cells in the nasal cavity viruses.

impact of Cold Weather on Respiratory Health

Worsening of Existing Conditions: Cold air can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. Cold air can cause airway constriction and irritation, making it harder to breathe, especially for people with these conditions.

Increased Risk of Respiratory Infections: Cold weather is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections like the common cold, flu, and pneumonia. Cold, dry air can weaken the body's immune response, making individuals more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections.

Airway Constriction: Breathing in cold air can cause the airways to narrow and constrict, leading to difficulty breathing, especially for people with sensitive airways or conditions like exercise-induced asthma.

Winter is a common time for respiratory infections to spread. The colder weather and lower humidity create an environment where viruses thrive and spread more easily1. Here are some common respiratory infections that tend to increase during winter:

Common Cold: Caused by various viruses, including rhinoviruses. Symptoms include congestion, sore throat, sneezing, and coughing2.

Influenza (Flu): A more severe viral infection than the common cold, with symptoms like fever, body aches, and fatigue.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Particularly dangerous for infants and older adults, causing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV): Like the common cold, causing symptoms like cough, fever, and nasal congestion.

COVID-19: While not exclusive to winter, cases can increase due to indoor gatherings and lower ventilation.

To protect yourself and others, consider these preventive measures:

Get vaccinated: Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are crucial.

Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoid touching your face.

Stay home when sick: To prevent spreading infections to others.

Boost your immune system: Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep.

What Respiratory Diseases Have Vaccines?

There are vaccines for some infectious respiratory diseases, including:

COVID-19

Influenza

Pneumonia

Pertussis (Whooping Cough), this is a combination vaccine that protects against tetanus and diphtheria too. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Tuberculosis (TB), with limited use in the United States

Some infectious respiratory diseases do not yet have a vaccine, including: Common cold

Self medication can have dangerous consequences Talk to your healthcare provider to see if you are up to date on your vaccinations. Infectious respiratory disease can be unpredictable. It’s always better to prevent serious illness rather than treat it after it occurs.

Resources on respiratory infections from

WHO NIH and CDC