Master, Doctor Nguyen Van Ngan, from the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, highlights that the cold season is a prime time for respiratory viruses. Cold, dry air constricts blood vessels in the nasal and throat lining, reducing blood flow and weakening the body's natural defenses. A compromised immune system, whether from cold exposure or contact with an infected individual, increases the risk of respiratory inflammation. Therefore, actively preventing respiratory illnesses in cold weather is essential.

Maintain good hygiene practices

Good hygiene is a crucial measure to protect the respiratory tract during the cold season. When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, cloth, or your elbow to limit the spread of droplets into the environment. Afterward, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if water is unavailable. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to reduce the risk of pathogens entering the body.

Doctor Ngan examines a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

A balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and light exercise help the body boost its immunity during the cold season, combating respiratory viruses and bacteria. If symptoms such as coughing, fever, or fatigue appear, rest at home, keep living spaces well-ventilated, and limit spreading the illness to others.

Wear masks in public

Wearing masks in crowded places, on public transport, or when visiting healthcare facilities helps limit the airborne spread of viruses and bacteria, protecting yourself and those around you.

Monitor health and get vaccinated

If symptoms such as a persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or fever appear, patients should not self-medicate with antibiotics. Instead, they need to seek examination at a specialized respiratory healthcare facility. Vaccinations for influenza, RSV, pneumococcus, and others can reduce the risk of respiratory illness complications.

Thu Giang