Winter often rhymes with the appearance of benign infectious diseases that can sometimes be fatal for some. These infections spoil our daily comfort. Often unavoidable, they can be cured without any particular treatment. But in some cases, it is advisable to ask for a doctor’s advice. This article will focus mainly on these different common infections that can be easily contracted during the winter so that you can take the appropriate measures.

The flu

The flu is easily transmitted by inhaling the Myxovirus influenza A, B, and C carried in the air. It manifests itself by the sudden onset of fever, chills, often accompanied by a cough and a feeling of discomfort. The elderly, those with respiratory and heart problems, are the most vulnerable. If you want to be protected, get vaccinated. If not, you can take medications such as amantadine hydrochloride, zanamivir, or oseltamivir for two days as soon as symptoms appear.

It is also important to rest and stay warm at all times to alleviate them without overheating the room in your home, as this contributes to the sensitivity of the nasal mucosa to infectious agents. To stay warm in a room, wood heating is efficient.

The Common Cold

The common cold, also called rhinitis, is common in children under 6. In adults, it is contracted more by the promiscuity of the crowd than by the cold. The rhinovirus is the primary virus responsible for the common cold. To minimize the risk of contamination, wash your hands frequently, limit contact with people with colds, have your own cutlery, use a single-use tissue, etc. If you have a cold, you can get rid of it by inhaling hot steam, taking aspirin, and drinking plenty of water. Don’t forget to stay warm with quality firewood.

Bronchiolitis

Bronchitis, commonly known as acute bronchitis, is an inflammation of the bronchi. They are flu-like syndromes that are more widespread than the flu. They begin with a cold or nasopharyngitis, followed by a dry cough.

A few days later, a fever, aches and pains, malaise, and a burning sensation in the chest may occur. Antibiotics have no effect on acute bronchitis, which is often caused by viruses (parainfluenza, rhinovirus, coronavirus) and rarely by bacteria. However, some doctors may prescribe them if they think bacteria cause a superinfection. Bed rest, cough medicine, and aspirin are more than enough to get rid of it if it doesn’t get worse.

Bronchiolitis is common in children under the age of two. They usually require hospitalization, but a respiratory physiotherapy is also an option. Often benign, these infections can lead to respiratory allergies and the development of respiratory infections if left untreated.

Sore Throat

Sore throat or angina is an inflammation of the tonsils. It starts with a tingling sensation in the throat, followed by difficulty swallowing and radiation in the ears. Bacteria cause 20% of angina, and 80% is viral. The tablets available in pharmacies are enough to alleviate the sore throat. If it is accompanied by a high fever, fatigue, cough, cold, swelling, and/or vomiting, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor.

Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is characterized by diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting for 2 to 3 days. Headaches, body aches, and fever may accompany these symptoms. This infection is caused by a virus called rotavirus and sometimes by bacteria. It is transmitted by direct contact with a sick person or with objects soiled by fine stool particles and by food and water consumed. It can be fatal in the elderly and children. To treat this disease, take oral rehydration solution (ORS) and drink plenty of water to compensate for water and salt losses due to body hydration. Then, focus on salty, sugar-rich foods with no residue.