Although winter is coming to an end, the last few days have been marked by drastic and unexpected temperature changes that can leave us vulnerable to respiratory diseases. In addition, in Peru, the first cases of G.5 – ERIS, the new variant of Covid-19, have been reported. This context reminds us of the importance of taking preventive measures to help us protect our health. Dr. Fatima Ortega, a pulmonologist at our clinic, gives us valuable advice on the subject.

What are the most frequent diseases in winter?

• Influenza. A viral infection that triggers fever, nasal congestion, and sore throat.
• Common cold. A condition that causes nasal congestion, sneezing, and coughing, usually caused by rhinovirus.
• Bronchitis. Inflammation of the airways causes persistent cough and mucus production.
• Pneumonia. Lung infection that causes high fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
• Throat infection. Includes strep throat and tonsillitis, causing sore throat and fever.
• Sinusitis. Inflammation of the sinuses causes facial pain and nasal congestion.
• Ear infections. May cause ear pain and fever, especially in children.

Recommendations as we say goodbye to winter and face a new variant of COVID-19:

• Avoid sudden temperature changes. To do so, wear coats or garments that help mitigate the intense cold.
• Maintain a complete vaccination schedule, according to your age. If you are vaccinated against COVID-19, it is necessary to make sure that you do not have any respiratory infection at the time of receiving the indicated dose.
• Maintain adequate control of allergic diseases such as asthma, rhinitis, or any disease that reduces our defenses.
• Perform regular physical exercise.
• Eat a healthy diet, rich in vegetables and fruits, which will help us to strengthen our immune system.
• Maintain adequate hydration. Drink at least 2 liters of water daily.
• Adequately ventilate the spaces of the house, and workplace, among others, to reduce environmental pollution.
• Maintain adequate hygiene, with hand washing or use of alcohol gel.
• Avoid staying in closed and poorly ventilated spaces, especially if there are many people.

Dr. Fatima Ortega
Pulmonologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma