While it seems that the high point of the COVID-19 pandemic has passed, the common cold and flu are greatly affecting people. Photo: Melissa Stevens.
While it seems that the high point of the COVID-19 pandemic has passed, the common cold and flu are greatly affecting people.
This winter, a local doctor has shared his tips for staying healthy this cold and flu season.
Dr Muhammad Navaid Ahmed of Caddens Medical Center said the flu season is frequent, but there are factors that make this year more intense.
“Every year the flu virus can change with the weather conditions, but this year we have many people who have had COVID, which affects their immune system, so immunity in the community is lower than normal,” he said. to say.
“With everyone trying to protect themselves from COVID-19 with immunizations, the flu vaccine has also been neglected, so now the flu virus has room to return and establish itself as a dominant virus.”
With viruses spreading through the community, Dr. Ahmed encourages people to remember the hygiene practices used during pandemic times.
“Wearing a mask and avoiding crowded places is the main way to avoid getting sick and washing your hands with warm soapy water for 10 to 15 seconds is the most evidence-based approach to infection control,” he said.
“Washing your hands after coughing or sneezing, so as not to touch your face, and disinfecting surfaces such as door knobs, keyboards, and phones where drops may fall is very important.”
Emphasizing the importance of getting vaccinated against the flu, Dr. Ahmed said there are other things to keep in mind to avoid getting sick.
“People spend more time together indoors during the winter and have heating that can dry the lining of your nose, which can make you more susceptible to colds and flu,” he said.
“Vitamin C and vitamin E can help, but you can get it from foods like oranges, walnuts and broccoli … different colored vegetables and yogurt can help you get the nutrients you need to boost your system immune system “.
If you are a victim of a virus, there is no real cure, but rather remedies to treat the symptoms.
“If you’ve been exposed to vitamins, Panadol, cold and flu remedies, plenty of rest, fluids, and staying warm and dry can help you feel better sooner,” he said.
“There are flu medications like Tamiflu, but you need to start it in the first 24 to 48 hours and it’s more suitable for higher-risk patients.”
Dr Ahmed said there should be relief as the weather warms, with the peak of the flu season just around the corner.
“The flu season should peak in July and then turn off and hopefully in September or October we will return to benchmark levels,” he said.
“Until then, try not to be complacent because the cold and the flu affect jobs, social lives, medical bills and add a huge burden to the health service.”
A graduate of Western Sydney University, Emily covers local, state and federal politics for the weekend, as well as crime and general news.