Soaking feet in warm water is a beneficial practice, widely adopted in many countries, including Vietnam. While it can help reduce the risk of stroke by promoting relaxation and stabilizing the nervous system, it does not prevent influenza A. Influenza A requires specific preventive measures, primarily vaccination.
The feet contain thousands of important nerves and blood vessels. Research indicates that warm foot soaks, especially with herbs, enhance the absorption of active compounds through the skin, increasing serotonin and dopamine levels—two hormones that promote feelings of happiness. This process helps the body relax, improves sleep quality, stabilizes the nervous system, and reduces the risk of stroke.
To soak your feet correctly, mix warm water at 38-43°C, ensuring it covers your ankles. You can add salt or herbs. Soak for 15-30 minutes, engaging in activities like reading, listening to music, or deep breathing to enhance effectiveness. After soaking, dry your feet thoroughly. Avoid soaking your feet if you have a high fever or if using herbs of unknown origin.
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Soaking feet in warm water helps the body relax, improves sleep, and reduces stroke risk, but it does not prevent influenza A. Photo: Vecteezy |
However, no research proves that foot soaking helps prevent influenza A. Influenza A spreads through the respiratory tract and indirect contact with virus-laden objects. The illness causes fever, cough, and a runny nose, and can escalate into severe conditions like pneumonia, respiratory failure, sepsis, meningitis, and myocarditis. Cold, humid weather provides favorable conditions for the influenza virus to thrive.
The most effective way to prevent influenza is through vaccination and annual boosters. Vietnam currently has four types of influenza vaccines that protect against common strains such as A/H3N2, A/H1N1, and influenza B. These vaccines are administered to children from 6 months old to adults. Children aged 6 months to under 9 years who have not been previously vaccinated require two doses, administered at least 4 weeks apart. Children 9 years and older, and adults, need one dose.
Beyond vaccination, you should prevent influenza by maintaining personal hygiene, washing hands frequently, covering your mouth when coughing, and wearing a mask in crowded places. Eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep also helps boost immunity.
Individuals with influenza A typically experience symptoms such as fever, dry cough, runny nose, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. The illness often resolves after 2-7 days, but in young children, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions, it can progress severely, leading to dangerous complications. Therefore, if you show signs of influenza, seek early medical attention and avoid self-medicating or treating it at home.
Doctor Nguyen Van Mac Toan
Medical Manager, VNVC Vaccination System
Readers can submit vaccine consultation questions for the doctor to answer here.
