Avoiding Common Winter Illnesses
As the weather grows cooler, we enjoy fall foliage and a respite from the summer heat. Unfortunately, it also increases the odds of respiratory illness.
Two of the most common winter illnesses are colds and the flu (influenza). Both are viral infections spread through droplets in the air from sneezing, coughing or talking. Although some people believe otherwise, cold, damp weather and drafts do not cause such illnesses, but frigid temperatures bring us indoors, in closer proximity to others who may transmit the virus.
Colds are minor upper respiratory illnesses. Typical cold symptoms include coughing, a mild sore throat, nasal congestion, and a runny nose or sneezing.
The flu is a more severe illness. Its symptoms are similar to those of the common cold, but are more severe, manifest more quickly—often within a matter of hours—and are also characterized by head and body aches, fatigue and fever.
Cold and flu viruses typically enter the body through the mucus membranes of the eyes, mouth and nose. They may be transmitted directly to you when an infected person coughs or sneezes nearby, or you may introduce them into your system when you touch your face after contact (such as shaking hands) with an infected person.
To decrease your chances of getting a cold or the flu, you should:
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
- Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes.
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
- Consider getting the flu shot.
According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the best way to avoid the flu is to get a flu vaccination each year. The flu shot is suitable for anyone who wants to reduce their chance of catching the flu, and is highly recommended for people at high risk for complications of the flu.
Individuals of particular populations should be vaccinated, advises Michelle Lally, MD, an infectious diseases specialist who serves patients at Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital. “Children age six months to five years should definitely get a flu shot,” Dr. Lally says, “as well as pregnant women, adults 50 and older, and those with chronic medical conditions.” Health care workers should also receive the shot, she says.
There will be no shortage of flu vaccine this year. In Rhode Island, you can get the flu shot from your doctor or at one of many convenient flu clinics throughout the state. Flu clinics will be offered at the Rhode Island Mall throughout October, November and December.
For more information on flu shots in Rhode Island, please call the Rhode Island Department of Health Ocean State Adult Immunization Hotline at 1-800-555-7858.
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