Prevent a cold from developing into a flu by taking extra precautions. —PEXELS.COM
As early as the first quarter of this year, the Department of Health has been issuing reminders to the public to “take extra precaution to avoid contacting and spreading the flu virus during the peak months of the flu season.”
According to Health Undersecretary Eric Domingo, the flu season begins in October and peaks from January to February when temperature drops. Unlike colds which have milder symptoms such as having a clogged or runny nose, flu usually involves a combination of fever, body pains, headache and even colds as well.
Our body’s defenses are down when we have colds. To prevent a cold from developing into a flu, Medicard Philippines Inc.’s Onsite Clinic Management and Health Promotion head Dr. Pauleen Faustino advises the public on addressing the cause immediately.
“If it’s viral, you need to boost the body’s immune system so the infection will resolve immediately. Drink plenty of water, have enough sleep and rest, and eat nutritious food,” she said.
Viruses are the the common cause of colds and flu. That said, it is important to cover one’s mouth when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of the virus.
“Since colds and flu are usually viral in nature, supportive treatment includes increased fluid intake, enough rest, medicines for fever, nasal congestion or body pains as needed,” Dr. Faustino added.
Flu-proofing yourself and your living spaces is also necessary. According to Dr. Faustino, you can do this with these simple measures:
Wash your hands or take a quick shower when you get home from work or school.
Keep surfaces at home, school and work clean by using a disinfectant.
If possible, use a different footwear inside and outside the house so as not to spread germs.
Avoid touching your hands, nose and mouth with unwashed hands because these are the common routes of transmission.
Practice proper hand washing to prevent contacting viruses.
Avoid exposure to people sick with the flu.
Vaccination is also a means to protect ourselves from viruses which cause the flu.
Health maintenance organization Medicard Philippines has free-standing clinics all over the metro as well as in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Clark, Rizal and Cebu that are ready to serve its members—and even nonmembers —who may be suffering from the flu or showing symptoms of the sickness. All doctors are board-certified while the nurses and clinic staff are well-trained, giving patients an assurance that they are under expert care.
Sources:
Philippine News Agency, pna.gov.ph; Department of Health, doh.gov.ph