Some viruses survive and multiply in cold climates and others, in warmer temperatures. Certain viruses affecting the respiratory system and gastro-intestinal tract widely circulate during the summer months.
With the onset of summer, along with looking for ways to escape the heat, we must also equip ourselves with information to prevent these viral infections.
Commonest viral infections seen in the summer season are the Enterovirus related infections followed by Rhinovirus and Adenovirus. Parainfluenza viruses are also common in summer. These viruses can cause:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loose stools
As a general rule, viral infections do not respond to antibiotics. Antivirals are recommended only for a select group of viral illnesses.
What Can You Do During a Viral Illness?
1) Stay indoors and rest. Wear a mask when venturing outside.
2) Apply a cool patch over the forehead during fever. Paracetamol can be taken for fever, headache or body pain.
3) Warm liquids like herbal teas, soups, rasam and broths can be taken.
4) Nasal drops, lozenges and cough syrups can be taken depending on the symptoms.
5) Steam inhalation helps reduce sinus and nasal congestion.
6) Avoid oily food, spicy food and food containing excess sugar.
How Can You Prevent These Viral Illnesses?
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Use alcohol-based hand rub after touching high-touch objects/surfaces like door knobs and handles in public places.
- Avoid close contact with persons having symptoms such as cough, sore throat and fever.
- Cover the nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing.
- Avoid eating out during outbreaks.
- Choose cooked, hot meals if unable to cook at home.
- Avoid salads, chaats, fruit juices, dips and chutneys.
When to See a Doctor?
- Fever > 3 days
- Dizziness or confusion
- Breathlessness
- Cough lasting for > 5 days
- Lethargy, loss of appetite
- Vomiting or loose stools
There are so many products that claim to “increase immunity”. While these remain controversial, you can do the following to improve your overall health, thereby reducing your chance of acquiring an infection.
- Sleep 7-8 hours each night. This is the recommended number of hours by the American Sleep Association.
- Drink plenty of liquids and stay hydrated.
- Exercise regularly.
- Manage stress.
- Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet rich in antioxidants and protein.
During the start of each season, when there is a change in the environmental temperature, certain viruses tend to cause a cluster of illnesses in the community. These usually last for 3-5 days and require no specific treatment. Following certain precautions and improving one’s overall health is essential for tackling this seasonal obstacle.
Dr. Rathivika S Sundar
Consultant Physician – Infectious Diseases
Kauvery Hospital Chennai
