How to stay safe from respiratory infections this time of the year

While the cities are adorned with lights, the streets are filled with laughter and the corridors with laughter, the sky is covered with smog. 

It’s that time of the year when the whole country prepares itself for Diwali – the festival of the year. If it happens to be your favourite festival, we bet you look forward to it. How can you not when the vibe and the ambience is just so pleasant and cheery? But the one thing you may not look forward to is the pollution and respiratory infections caused by it. 

Yes, it’s that time of the year when you can see pollution in the sky. It is as if smoke wraps the city like a blanket. So, when you are breathing smoke, how would respiratory infection be surprising news? 

But just so you know, it’s possible to prevent respiratory infections to some extent. After all, why would you like to spend the festive season tucked in bed, coughing your chest out?

So, keep reading this blog because we will be sharing a few tips that can help you stay safe from respiratory infections. 

Wear a mask

Flashback to 2020 when the world was fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.  Everybody was in their homes, maintaining social distancing, and wearing a mask. Now, it’s time to do the same. 

Masks are an effective tool that you can use to prevent respiratory infections. 

While you are at it, ensure you wear a good quality mask that offers your optimum protection. Keep changing it from time to time to keep up with good hygiene. 

 Get your flu shots 

Vaccinations are just not for toddlers and kids. It’s for adults as well. Thankfully, there are flu shots available that help you stay protected from infections. They are not only effective but safe as well. 

So, contact your physician and get that flu shot immediately if you haven’t already. 

Wash your hands from time to time 

Washing hands frequently is the pillar of good hygiene. It can protect you against respiratory infections and viral infections as well. 

So, do not skip washing hands, and keep a sanitiser in your hands. Consider this a gentle reminder that hands are no less than a home and carrier for germs. So, stay protected by washing your hands every now and then. 

Practice good respiratory hygiene 

This goes without saying. Good respiratory hygiene is essential to stay protected from respiratory and viral infections. This includes: 

• Covering your mouth with a cloth whenever you cough
• Do not just keep or throw tissues and napkins anywhere. 
• Use a hand sanitiser every time you touch your nose or mouth. 
• Use masks
• Stay away from symptomatic patients. 

 Stay indoors if possible 

Now is not a good time to stay outdoors for long. So, do your best to not to step out. If you cannot avoid it, try limiting it instead. If staying outdoors is not possible, ensure that you have a mask on at all times and you take a bath after returning home. Doing the latter will ensure that you remove any pollutants that may be on your hair or skin. 

 Add air-purifying plants to your home

Staying out in nature is not the best idea this time of the year, but bringing in nature surely is. Consider adding air-purifying plants in your home setting. These plants include aloe vera, spider plant and ivy. They minimise air pollution by purifying indoor air. You may also use air purifiers and humidifiers for this purpose. 

Keep the exhaust fans and chimneys on

Exhaust fans and chimneys allow the air to be recirculated. This can help minimise indoor air pollution. Just so you know indoor air pollution is much worse than outdoor pollution. 

Focus on boosting your immunity 

Your body has its own army, remember? So, you must power it up with fruits and veggies rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Consider adding fruits power-packed with magnesium, Vitamin C and Omega Fatty acids. 

You may also consider drinking herbal teas such as ginger tea and tulsi once or twice a day for added benefits. 

Closing thoughts 

Now is not the time to fall sick with respiratory infections! This is the time to enjoy the festivities and celebrate it with the people you love. So, be on your guard and follow these tips to stay protected from pollution and respiratory infections. Happy festivities!

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