5 respiratory viruses in winter: Tips from Dr. Adel El Shenawy
With the arrival of autumn and the approach of winter, the weather is experiencing rapid fluctuations, creating an ideal environment for respiratory viruses to thrive. In this context, Dr. Adel El-Shenawy, a consultant in respiratory diseases, warned of a potential surge in a group of viruses that attack the respiratory system simultaneously, necessitating increased public health awareness to ensure a safe passage through this period.
Map of active viruses and risks of a "triple epidemic"
Dr. El-Shenawy explained that the current period is a "fertile ground" for the spread of a range of infections, including five main types: variants of the novel coronavirus, seasonal influenza in its various strains, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the common cold, and adenoviruses, which thrive in such conditions. This warning aligns with global concerns about what is known as a "triple pandemic," where infections with influenza, coronavirus, and RSV occur simultaneously, potentially overwhelming healthcare systems if not addressed with proactive preventative measures.
The consultant pointed out that the noticeable increase in infection rates is an expected and physiologically normal annual event, as the drop in temperatures and dryness of the air leads to dryness of the mucous membranes in the nose, which makes it easier for viruses to penetrate the body. This does not warrant panic or excessive worry, provided that it is dealt with wisely and preventive measures are followed.
Groups most at risk of complications
Dr. El-Shenawy stressed the importance of not underestimating or ignoring initial symptoms, warning that neglect could lead to undesirable health complications, such as severe pneumonia or worsening asthma attacks. These complications are more severe for the most vulnerable groups in society, namely:
- Elderly people (over 65 years old).
- Children and infants (especially with syncytial virus).
- People with chronic respiratory diseases (such as COPD and asthma).
- Patients with immunodeficiency and chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Isolation strategies and first lines of defense
Dr. El-Shenawy called for activating the principle of "self-isolation" and avoiding direct contact between infected and healthy individuals as soon as symptoms of infection appear, including fever, runny nose, cough, body aches, or loss of smell and taste. He emphasized that breaking the chain of infection begins with individuals understanding the necessity of staying home when sick.
When should you go to the hospital immediately?
The consultant established red lines that necessitate immediate hospitalization and not relying solely on home treatment, to ensure urgent medical intervention and save lives. The most prominent of these red lines are:
- A severe and persistent rise in temperature that does not respond to painkillers and fever reducers.
- Feeling extremely difficult and suffocated in breathing or blueness of the lips.
- The appearance of a severe and sudden skin rash.
- Severe fatigue cases that may reach the point of repeated fainting or mental confusion.
Al-Shenawi concluded his advice by emphasizing that community awareness, taking seasonal vaccines (such as the flu vaccine), and early intervention in dealing with symptoms constitute the first line of defense for safely navigating the respiratory virus season.
