Tips to avoid seasonal diseases
Arab Weather - Seasonal diseases are diseases that appear to spread or increase in severity during certain seasons of the year, often due to climate or environmental changes. These diseases significantly affect public health during those periods of time, and vary from one season to another based on multiple factors such as weather, the spread of viruses, and changes in lifestyle. The following are some examples of seasonal diseases:
Examples of seasonal diseases
Flu and colds (fall and winter)
Influenza and colds are more common in winter due to lower temperatures and reduced ventilation in indoor spaces, which makes it easier for viruses to spread.
Seasonal allergies (spring and fall)
Allergies such as hay fever (pollen allergy) increase during the spring due to the spread of pollen from trees and plants. In the fall, there may be an allergy to mold or dust.
Respiratory diseases (winter)
Such as bronchitis and pneumonia. These diseases are exacerbated in winter due to the cold that negatively affects the respiratory system.
Causes of seasonal diseases
- Climate changes: Temperature and humidity affect the activity of viruses and bacteria.
- Human behavior: such as indoor gatherings in winter or exposure to the sun in summer.
- Environmental pollutants: such as pollen or mold in the spring and fall.
Prevention of seasonal diseases requires appropriate preventive measures such as vaccinations, maintaining personal hygiene, and avoiding exposure to triggering factors.
On the other hand, influenza is one of the most widespread diseases around the world, as cases of infection increase with the beginning of autumn and into winter, as a result of the drop in temperatures and the impact on the body’s immunity.
What is influenza? And how does it affect the body?
According to what was reported by the Anadolu Agency, quoting Dr. Ibrahim Topal Ali from the Health Directorate of the Turkish state of Kocaeli, influenza occurs as a result of the body being infected with one of the types of influenza viruses, which attacks the respiratory system, including the lungs, throat, and nose, and may sometimes affect the digestive system.
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Flu symptoms
Symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and in some cases diarrhea. The spread of this disease is particularly noticeable during the fall and winter seasons.
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Ways of transmission of influenza
Dr. Tubal explained that the influenza virus is transmitted from one person to another through the air, especially when sneezing or coughing. The infection can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as door handles.
The importance of the flu vaccine
Dr. Tubal stressed the importance of getting the flu vaccine annually, as this vaccine helps the body develop immunity against genetically modified viruses. The vaccine is essential for people at higher risk of infection, such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases.
Preventive tips to avoid getting the flu
- Getting the flu vaccine: This is especially important for people at higher risk.
- Wash your hands regularly: Using soap and water can reduce the transmission of infection.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing: Using a tissue helps reduce the spread of germs.
- Avoid crowded places: especially during flu season.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eat foods rich in vitamins, such as vitamin C.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity boosts the body's immunity.
- Good sleep: helps strengthen the immune system.
- Drink plenty of fluids: to keep the respiratory system moist.
Dr. Ibrahim Tobal stressed that following these preventive tips helps reduce the chances of contracting influenza and boost immunity during the fall and winter seasons.
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