Flu, RSV, And COVID-19: How To Protect Yourself From Common Winter Viruses (Image Credits: iStock)
Winter brings in waves of respiratory illnesses like the common cold, RSV, COVID-19, and flu. While vaccines can help protect against RSV, COVID, and the flu, the common cold remains unpreventable by the vaccine, leaving people to rely on practical prevention strategies—and some timeless advice from Grandma.
Washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, and wearing a mask are all effective ways to reduce the spread of these viruses. However, modern medicine has also explained some common misconceptions about these illnesses. Experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine explain what’s true and what’s not, along with tips for managing symptoms.
Myths Debunked by Johns Hopkins Experts
1. Cold weather doesn’t cause colds. Contrary to popular belief, stepping out in the cold or getting wet won’t make you sick. Colds are caused by one of over 200 viruses.
2. COVID-19 immunity isn’t lifelong. Having COVID once doesn’t mean you’re immune forever. Reinfections are possible.
3. Flu vaccines won’t give you the flu. The vaccine introduces an inactive form of the virus to help your body develop immunity without causing illness.
4. RSV isn’t just for kids. While it’s common in children, RSV also affects adults, especially seniors.
Understanding and Managing Winter Illnesses
1. Common Cold
The common cold spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include sore throat, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, mild fatigue, and cough.
Management Tips:
- Gargle with warm salt water for a sore throat.
- Use warm steam to ease congestion.
- Apply petroleum jelly for chapped lips and nose.
2. COVID-19
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, spreads through airborne particles and can infect asymptomatic individuals. Symptoms may include fever, chills, breathing issues, fatigue, and a loss of taste or smell.
Management Tips:
- Rest and use over-the-counter fever-reducing medication for mild cases.
- Seek medical care for severe symptoms like breathing difficulty.
3. Influenza (Flu)
The flu virus evolves annually, presenting new strains each year. Symptoms include fever, extreme fatigue, severe aches, sore throat, and vomiting.
Management Tips:
- Stay hydrated and rest.
- Antiviral medications may be prescribed for severe cases.
4. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is one of the most common childhood respiratory illnesses but also poses risks to seniors. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, loss of appetite, and fever.
Management Tips:
- Avoid giving aspirin to children or teens.
- Over-the-counter meds can ease symptoms, but severe cases may require hospitalization.
When To See A Doctor
For all respiratory illnesses, experts suggest consulting a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment if symptoms worsen or persist. Self-care strategies like staying warm, resting, and increasing fluid intake can help alleviate mild symptoms.
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