If you didn’t get your flu shot this year, get it now!
We thought that would be an excellent place to start. Now, let’s talk about some illnesses more likely to occur during winter than in the other seasons and what you can do about them. Then, we will discuss the recommended foods that can help build your immune system as an additional defense.
1. Common Cold
Yes, you are more likely to get a cold during winter months because viruses thrive in cooler temperatures. Additionally, people tend to spend more time indoors or in close quarters when it is cold outside. Wearing a mask is up to you, but you need to be more mindful that the risks of catching a disease are usually more prominent during the colder months.
2. Flu (Influenza)
In 1918, a virus spread throughout the world, later known as the Spanish Flu. Back then, the world was stunned by this disease, and millions of people died. One hundred years later, we have made tremendous strides, and the flu is not as deadly as it was. Like the common cold, the flu is more prevalent in winter for the same reasons. We still need to adhere to the precautions recommended by our medical providers. Getting a flu shot is one of the significant recommendations.
3. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a highly contagious respiratory virus that infects the lungs, nose, and throat. Mostly among children, but adults too. It typically peaks during the colder months. It typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can lead to serious complications.
It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can live on hard surfaces for hours. Runny nose, coughs, sneezing, fever, and possible loss of appetite are the main symptoms.
4. Strep Throat
We all get sore throats from time to time, but if they accompany pain while swallowing, headache, and possibly fever, they are more serious and could possibly be strep throat.
Strep Throat is a bacterial infection that tends to spread more easily in indoor spaces; subsequently, in winter, the chances are higher that you can acquire it. It is more common among children and teenagers but adults can get infected as well.
5. Sinus Infections (Sinusitis)
Sinus infections can be triggered by colds or allergies, which are more common in colder months. Inflamed sinuses can cause discomfort and make it easier for infections to take hold. If you feel pressure in the ears, have nasal congestion, possible headaches or fever, you should contact your medical provider for follow up.
6. Norovirus (Stomach Flu)
Norovirus is a highly contagious gastrointestinal virus that often spreads in winter when people are in close quarters or from eating contaminated food (food poisoning), also called stomach flu. It usually starts with nausea and vomiting, but also diarrhea and possible stomach cramps. It normally lasts from 24 to 48 hours.
7. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months due to reduced sunlight exposure, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock and affect mood. There are medications for this. Additionally, some people find brighter lighting inside to be helpful.