This time of year sees a marked increase in respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchiolitis and influenza as viruses and bacteria find an environment conducive to their spread when people tend to spend more time indoors and with less ventilation. However, there are ways to prevent them through proper hygiene, a complete vaccination schedule, and proper nutrition.
According to the latest data published by the Argentine Ministry of Health in the National Epidemiological Bulletin No. 661 SE 28 | In 2023, there were 531,596 cases of ILI (influenza-like illnesses), 89,031 cases of pneumonia, 117,836 cases of bronchiolitis in children under two years of age, and 10,131 hospitalizations for acute respiratory infection (SARI). Similarly, the positivity calculated for Epidemiological Week (SE) 28/2023 in outpatient departments was found to be 9.47% for SARS-CoV-2, 16.46% for influenza and RSV 2.70% between samples, analyzed by RT-PCR. In addition, 43 people have died with the flu this year.
“We see that the most common diseases at this time of year are pneumonia with 40% of positive cases, bronchiolitis with 30% and influenza with 20%. These diseases pose a risk not only to health, but also to populations such as young children. , the elderly and those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and immunosuppression may be even more affected,” explained Leandro Crisostomo, Clinical Physician (MP 3850).
In this sense, experts share some recommendations for the prevention of seasonal diseases:
1. Vaccination against influenza: Consulting a healthcare professional and getting a flu vaccine is a key strategy to protect yourself and reduce the spread of the virus.
2. Cleaning and hygiene: wash your hands frequently with soap and water, use hand sanitizers, and keep common areas clean.
3. Balanced diet: Eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals will strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to disease.
4. Adequate ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation of enclosed spaces and avoid sudden changes in temperature when entering heated spaces.
5. Primary health care: Regular visits to the doctor and receiving the correct diagnosis, forms of prevention, treatment and rehabilitation are essential to the treatment of any disease.
“It is important to be aware of warning signs that may indicate a more serious illness than a simple flu or cold. If you have persistent symptoms such as a high fever that does not go down, difficulty breathing, chest pain, parallel transmission from the family If there is a family or progressive deterioration in the general condition, you should immediately seek medical help. These signs may indicate complications that require timely examination and treatment,” the specialist added.
Protecting yourself in winter is not just something to do during this time, over the years it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right, exercise regularly, avoid drinking and always see a doctor to get an adequate diagnosis of any complication. and a personalized treatment plan.
