With winter officially underway, public health officials are bracing for the expected seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses.While many viruses circulate year-round, colder temperatures and increased indoor gatherings create ideal conditions for the spread of infections like influenza, RSV, and the common cold. This report details the causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventative measures individuals can take to protect themselves and others during the heightened risk period, as advised by medical professionals.
As winter approaches, so too does cold and flu season. Respiratory illnesses are expected to rise as people spend more time indoors, increasing the ease with which viruses can spread.
Respiratory infections are particularly prevalent during the winter months, including the common cold, influenza (the flu), bronchitis, pneumonia, and sore throats. Gastrointestinal illnesses also circulate, and chronic conditions like asthma can worsen. Understanding these seasonal trends is crucial for proactive health management.
Causes
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Increased time spent indoors is a primary driver of these infections, facilitating the transmission of viruses such as rhinoviruses, influenza viruses, and RSV. “Dry heating air dries out the mucous membranes, weakening their natural barrier function. The immune system can also be weakened by cold temperatures and a lack of sunlight,” explains Raimund Kolenik, a general practitioner in Eberndorf and a specialist in surgery.
Symptoms
A common cold typically presents with symptoms like a runny nose, cough, sore throat, sneezing, mild headache, and sometimes a low-grade fever. Influenza, however, is often characterized by a sudden onset, high fever (often above 100.4°F), severe muscle and joint pain, pronounced fatigue, and a dry cough. Bronchitis initially causes a dry cough that later produces mucus, along with a tightness in the chest and sometimes a mild fever. Pneumonia can also cause shortness of breath and chest pain.
Treatment
“Treatment for viral infections is generally symptomatic – rest, fluids, and fever-reducing medications. Bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, require targeted treatment with antibiotics,” says Kolenik. He emphasizes the importance of seeking immediate medical attention for those at risk, experiencing symptoms like high fever, shortness of breath, or severe pain. Quick tests (antigen tests) can be used in clinical settings to differentiate between COVID-19, influenza (A/B), and RSV. “This is particularly important for at-risk patients (the elderly, those with chronic illnesses) as an accurate diagnosis allows for the timely prescription of appropriate antiviral medications,” Kolenik adds.
How to Protect Yourself This Winter
“The annual flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect against the flu. The pneumococcal vaccine is also recommended for at-risk groups. A new RSV vaccine is available for infants and adults aged 60 and over to prevent severe illness,” says Kolenik. Regular and thorough handwashing with soap and water is essential. To strengthen your immune system, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise outdoors, adequate sleep, and stress reduction are advisable. “Regular sauna use can train the immune system through the alternation of heat and cold,” Kolenik notes. Don’t forget to dress warmly in the winter, especially protecting your neck and chest in cold weather.
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