A shift in the climate can provide relief from the sweltering summer heat and the bitterly cold winters. But it's also a prime time to fall sick, especially due to viral infections. If a viral fever develops from an acute viral infection and is not treated promptly, it can cause serious health issues. Identifying effective preventive measures is crucial in averting the onset of viral fevers during these climate shifts. Staying vigilant about these measures is key to preventing the emergence of viral fevers.
Ways to Prevent Viral Fever
A viral fever outbreak is typically a viral infection that spreads through ingestion, bodily fluids, mosquito bites and inhalation. Here are the top few strategies to avoid contracting a viral fever:
1. A proper hand wash
Before consuming anything, we should always wash our hands thoroughly with soap and water. Moreover, we should develop the habit of washing our hands as soon as we get inside our house.
Hands come into contact with a plethora of surfaces that could harbour viruses. We can reduce the chances of contracting a viral fever by keeping our hands clean. If soap and water are not available, it's good to use a sanitiser.
2. Distance from a sick person
We run the risk of contracting a viral infection if we are in close contact with someone who is ill. Thus, to avoid contracting a viral fever, we should keep our distance from an ill person. Youngsters and the elderly should stay away from sick people because their immune systems are weakened and they are more susceptible to viral infections.
3. Avoid mosquito bites
Certain viral fevers, like dengue fever, are contracted by mosquito bites. We should use mosquito repellent and mosquito nets to avoid getting bitten by mosquitos. As soon as the sun sets, we should also close the windows and doors.
We should ensure that no area around our house has stagnant water, as this could serve as a mosquito breeding ground. Additionally, children should wear long sleeves or apply creams to ward off mosquitoes.
4. Cover nose and mouth
Viral infections are primarily acquired through airborne virus inhalation. We could easily breathe in virus-containing droplets that are released into the air when someone near us coughs or sneezes. If our mouth and nose are properly covered, we can create a barrier that can stop the virus from entering our body. An excellent way to avoid contracting a viral infection is by wearing a mask.
5. Eating hot, nutritious food
Eating warm food should be a habit to avoid getting a viral fever. As long as our food is hot, there won't be any virus transmission through it because viruses cannot survive high temperatures. We should eat wholesome foods as well to strengthen our immunity.
6. Getting proper vaccination
Timely vaccinations are necessary to avoid numerous infections. Receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, for instance, may protect us against contracting the coronavirus. Use every opportunity to get vaccinated against the flu to prevent viral fever.
7. Sufficient rest
Despite adhering to preventive measures, if infection still occurs, prioritising adequate rest remains crucial. This helps to conserve energy and promote healing by the immune system, potentially reducing the severity and duration of viral illnesses.
Conclusion
The two seasons when viral fever is most prevalent are during inclement weather and the monsoon season. Preventing a viral fever requires heeding the preventive advice previously mentioned. To help ward off the illness, consume a balanced diet in addition to lots of water. Regularly taking warm baths is an effective strategy to avoid viral fever. Exercising frequently is another way to keep our immune system strong. Additionally, having adequate health insurance coverage ensures access to timely medical care if preventive measures fall short.