As the Kashmir valley is gradually heading towards the winter season, the weather change- colder mornings and evenings- has led to a seasonal influenza which is characterised by onset of fever, cough, headache, sore throat, runny nose and at times severe malaise (feeling unwell).
The doctors have advised people to take all the precautionary measures to stay healthy given the climate change.
Rising Kashmir senior reporter, Sameer Showkin Lone, spoke to senior medico and spokesperson of Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, Dr Mir Mushtaq on how people can stay healthy in the present climatic conditions.
Q1) What is Seasonal influenza or flu?
Ans: Seasonal influenza is caused by different types of influenza viruses. It occurs mainly during winter, from October to March. We are heading towards the cold with climate changing fast. The cold weather provides a good environment for viruses to grow. The viral infections affect people with symptoms like sudden onset of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, sore throat and a runny nose.
Q2) How can people avoid getting the flu?
Ans: People need to take utmost care of themselves; especially of the elderly and children as they are very prone to get infections. People must ensure wearing warm clothes and keeping their surroundings warm whether at the office, home or at any other place of work.
Q3) Who is at most risk?
• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
• Children and older people.
• People with chronic medical conditions
• People with increased risk of exposure to influenza,
Q4) How do we stop it from spreading?
To avoid spread of these communicable viruses, people can take Covid SOPs as they can be very beneficial.
If people feel such symptoms like cough, fever, runny nose etc, they must separate themselves from the rest of the family members until they consult a doctor.
It is now-a-days a mixture of viruses, so it is difficult to differentiate the viral infections. People must exercise caution and consult doctors on time, so that it can be properly examined if the viral infection is a flu, COVID or anything else.
After diagnosis people can take appropriate measures as advised by the doctor.
Below are the general precautions the senior doctor has advised to stay healthy.
• Drink warm/boiled water
• Protect body with warm clothes
• Hygienic environment
• Ensure very warm clothes to children
• Viral appropriate behaviour
• Hand hygiene, use of mask can be continued
• Use fresh vegetables, fruits
• Cook raw vegetables properly
• Properly wash fruits, vegetables
• Keep your distance from people to prevent spreading cold and cough
• Take medicines regularly as prescribed by your doctor
• Stay hydrated.
