Preparing for the wave of colds, gastroenteritis and angina

The Organization for Coordinated Surveillance of Emergencies (OSCOUR) has noted an increase in seasonal illnesses compared to last year. These include the common cold, gastroenteritis and angina. These infections mainly affect children and adults alike. To cope with them, you need to prepare your body for winter. Find out here what you can do in winter to limit viral infections.

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The origin of the explosion in winter illnesses

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The arrival of autumn and winter sees an increase in heart and respiratory pathologies. Two factors are behind this increase. On the one hand, neglect of protective measures. Secondly, a decline in the body's immunity.

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How are barrier gestures linked to this epidemic?

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The implementation of the vaccination campaign has helped to reduce the incidence of COVID-19. However, healthcare professionals continue to encourage proper compliance with barrier measures. These include washing hands as often as possible, wearing a mask, using hydroalcoholic gel, airing the home and social distancing.

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Maintaining barrier measures reduces the risk of Coronavirus transmission and the circulation of other viruses. These include influenza, bronchitis, colds and strep throat, all of which are contagious by air.

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Unfortunately, a survey carried out by Datacovid-Ipsos has revealed that non-compliance with barrier gestures is the main reason for the rising tide of colds, gastro-enteritis and strep throat. The fact is, the majority of French people are paying less and less attention. The result: viruses circulate more easily and spread more widely.

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Reduced immunity in the general population

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Epidemiologists speak ofa reduction in French immunity. Cold weather reduces the body's immune function. The body slows down, making it harder for the immune system to fight off viruses.

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Viruses such as rhinoviruses are more resistant to cold. Their lifespan increases as the temperature drops. The ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun to fight viruses are scarce in winter.

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What can you do to prevent colds, gastroenteritis and strep throat?

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Winter diseases occur between November and April. Tessan's advice on how to deal with them.

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Respecting barrier gestures

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According to INPES, microbes are transmitted mainly through contact. The best way to avoid catching viruses is to continue practicing the good habits adopted during the Covid-19 pandemic, and to limit physical contact such as kissing and shaking hands as much as possible.

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A healthy, balanced diet

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A good diet helps the body fight off winter illnesses. Your dishes should be composed of foods with nutritional properties such as vitamins, trace elements and mineral salts.

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Eat foods rich in vitamins C, E and D, such as citrus fruits, oilseeds and oily fish. They play an essential role in strengthening your immune system.

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A healthier home

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Don't stay too long in a confined, enclosed space. You'll reduce the concentration of viruses in your home if you get into the habit of airing it out properly. Don't hesitate to use a humidifier if necessary.

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Finally, always wear warm clothes to protect yourself from the cold. Every time you go out, get into the habit of taking your gloves and hat with you.

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Colds, gastroenteritis and angina: symptoms and treatments?

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The air is cold, and the body adapts to the new climatic conditions. The nasal mucous membranes go into action, causing a runny nose. The cold air mixes with the warm air we breathe, drying out the mucus on the lips.

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In case of doubt, Tessan puts at your disposal connected medical teleconsultation booths to obtain a prescription from a general practitioner. In this way, you can avoid waiting in line, while still being reimbursed by Social Security.

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Preparing for a cold

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The common cold is an infection of the nose, nasal passages and throat. More than 200 viruses can cause it, but the most common is rhinovirus. Symptoms include a thick, yellow nasal discharge, fever over 39°, conjunctivitis and sore throat. Other symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, reduced sense of taste and smell, fatigue and muscle aches.

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To treat the common cold, patients need to stay as hydrated as possible by drinking plenty of water. You should rest and rinse your nose with a single dose of saline solution. This eliminates mucus.

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Tissues should be avoided. Every room in the house should be well ventilated. Your diet should be rich in vitamin C to boost your immune system and help the body fight viruses.

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Remedies for gastroenteritis

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Also known as gastroenteritis, this is an inflammation of the stomach and intestinal lining. It can be caused by viruses (norovirus in adults and rotavirus in children), bacteria or parasites. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, headaches and muscle aches. Symptoms last between 24 and 72 hours.

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In the event of gastroenteritis, beware of dehydration. That's why it's vital to drink plenty of water. To stop diarrhea, patients can take an anti-diarrheal. These help to make up for lost mineral salts.

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Spasfon can alleviate stomach pains. In the event of severe vomiting, an anti-vomiting agent may also be prescribed.

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Tips to avoid strep throat

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Angina is inflammation of the tonsils. They are generally benign. Symptoms include sore throat, fever, cough, cold and digestive problems.

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There are two types of angina: viral angina, which is the most common, and bacterial angina. As the name suggests, the former is caused by a virus. The second is caused by bacteria, the most common of which is streptococcus.

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To treat angina, patients can take analgesics to relieve sore throats. For the duration of the treatment, the patient should eat soft or liquid food, preferably cold. They should also gargle with salt water and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. Herbal teas are an excellent way to stay hydrated.

Tessan teleconsultation offers remote medical consultation with a general practitioner or specialist.

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