Stay Healthy Amidst Rising Cases of New Covid-19 Variant

As the winter and vacation season comes, health specialists announced a red alert about the dangerous spread of respiratory illnesses, including the JN.1 strain of coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza. In addition to the frigid temperatures, the surge in hospitalizations for the flu and RSV is exacerbated by elevated levels of air pollution.

“With red alert of high pollution which is already generating inhaling issues like throat irritation, cough, sputum, breathlessness, nasal irritation, several other viruses are bringing respiratory infections like influenza, RSV, and COVID which have similar symptoms,” says Dr. Akshay Budhraja, Senior Consultant, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Akash Healthcare.

The only way to stay safe and healthy on these infection days is to follow Covid-appropriate guidelines, suggested by experts. Complete your vaccination is also the option to stay away from infection. Wearing high-quality masks or respirators, like N95s, can deliver more safeguard, specifically for those at high risk of extreme illness from COVID-19.

Dr Akshay Budhraja said that” people should wear N95 when going outside from home, hospital, or another place. N95 will deliver complete protection from damaging impacts of pollution as well the respiratory viral infections.”

To stay safe from viral infection, good hand hygiene is another prime measure. Regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can decrease the risk of infection.

Enhancing air circulation and ventilation within enclosed areas can contribute to lowering the prevalence of airborne viruses. Options like opening windows, using air purifiers, and turning on exhaust fans.

Dr Budhraja suggests some tips stay healthy, “ drink a lot of water and juice, sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours a day, eat healthy food, avoid crowded places, do exercise regularly, keep the indoor air quality as clean as possible, and get the annual flu shot and Covid-19 booster dose. Must follow all updated safety guidelines.”

What to do if you have Symptoms

The symptoms of COVID-19, flu and RSV are similar. The finest method to know what you have is getting tested. Several local health departments are delivering free drive-thru testing for RSV, flu, and Covid-19. If you test positive, then stay home and follow safety guidelines.

If you experience a fever (temperature exceeding 100°F) despite testing negative, it is advisable to remain at home. Refrain from attending work, class, or campus activities until you have been free of fever for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

If you have flu or COVID-19 symptoms other than a fever but the test is negative, you go outside or work or study, but you must wear a mask until the symptoms have completed end.

Covid-19 remains a warning and new variants keep emerging. WHO says that, COVID-19 continues to cause infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. At the same time, COVID-19, influenza, and RSV will circulate. This is alarming because when such situations arise, the risk to vulnerable populations escalates, and health services may face heightened pressure. To stay safe and healthy, follow all safety guidelines.

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