Health Country October 31, 2024

Preventing Respiratory Infections This Winter

As respiratory infections rise during winter, the CDC emphasizes hygiene and vaccination. Keep hands clean and isolate when symptomatic to protect vulnerable groups.


Preventing Respiratory Infections This Winter

To combat the rapid spread of germs and bacteria, it is essential to use cleaning and disinfection products in all areas, from electronic devices to any object in the home or office. Armando Ruiz, Director of Marketing for Northern Latin America at Clorox Company, highlights the importance of this practice.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, staying up-to-date with vaccinations, especially against COVID-19 and RSV, is crucial. They recommend prioritizing hygiene by washing and disinfecting hands frequently, staying home if you are sick to avoid infecting others, and wearing masks in enclosed spaces or when showing symptoms. These measures help reduce the risk of contracting and spreading respiratory illnesses during the winter.

During the fall and winter months, there is an increase in respiratory infections, with the flu being one of the most concerning for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, individuals with heart or lung diseases, and children under five years old. The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that the flu severely affects millions of people annually and causes hundreds of thousands of deaths due to complications.

In addition to the flu, another virus that spreads during this season is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which causes bronchitis and pneumonia. Symptoms include nasal discharge, cough, sneezing, fever, and loss of appetite. Diseases such as pharyngitis, which inflames the throat, and rhinopharyngitis, caused by the rhinovirus, are also common during these months and are easily acquired.

Young children, especially those attending daycare, are particularly susceptible to these infections due to the immaturity of their immune systems. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain preventive measures such as disinfection and hygiene practices to avoid infections. Viruses can remain active on surfaces for hours, increasing the chances of infection if touched and then the face is manipulated. It is essential to enhance cleaning in enclosed spaces to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.