Common winter illnesses

The coming of winter brings with it the much dreaded illnesses, chief among them flu and colds. These illnesses are a drawback and the rains are not making it any easier.

Cool Lifestyle had a chat with a renowned biochemist at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, who declined to be identified, but who was delighted to give an insight on illnesses to be on the lookout for and how to care for the body during winter.

“The common winter illnesses include flu (short for influenza), asthma, colds, and allergies among others. The most common ailment occurs in the upper respiratory area, so it is essential to look after oneself,” he said.

The expert went on to explain that since the outside temperatures are lower than the body temperature, the body heat is transferred into the air and that in turn triggers problems.

“The virus cannot be treated but the symptoms are the ones that can be dealt with. The flu’s lifespan in the body lasts for seven to 10 days but while it is in the body, it weakens the immune system making one vulnerable to diseases,” he said.

The doctor explained that flu attacks the body by spreading through to the lower respiratory track as well. Both the flu and cold are contagious viral infections and although the symptoms can be similar, flu is much worse.

A cold may drag you down a bit but flu can make you dread the very thought of getting out of bed. It also brings coughing, headaches, and chest discomfort just like the cold. With flu again, one is likely to run a high fever for several days with fatigue and weakness. At this stage, it is difficult to function so one would need to take a break from school.

The cold, however, normally brings with it congestion, sore throat and sneezing. According to experts, complications from colds
are relatively minor but a severe case of flu can lead to life-threatening illnesses such as pneumonia.

With this in mind, it will only be fair to make an effort to ensure that the bug is not spread to other people either in the classroom or college dormitories.
“First and foremost, it is best to wear warm clothes at all times during the winter to keep colds and flu away. The rooms must be kept well ventilated at the same time washing hands at regular intervals to avoid spreading the flu virus to other people. The flu virus on the skin can infect the body when one rubs the eyes, nose or mouth”, said the biochemist.

People should also avoid making direct contact with respiratory secretions through sharing drinks or utensils or handling items contaminated by an infected person.
“Taking vitamin C supplements also helps so it is advisable to take to school fruits that include lemons, oranges or simply lemon tea in the morning. Soups should also be taken while they are hot,” he said.

The biochemist also highlighted that in other countries like the United States of America, they have vaccinations that help to tackle flu. However, what this vaccination does is to make the sickness mild but does not eradicate all the symptoms.

“Other complications to look out for this season include chapped lips. The hair becomes brittle and the skin becomes dry because of the cold and dry wind. All one can do at the end of the day is to look after him or herself,” he concluded.