February 26, 2018
If the cold is not responsible for infectious diseases, it allows their spread. Some tips are therefore useful to avoid viruses.
Cold, a factor favoring viruses
The cold has once again settled in France. And with him, infectious diseases. But are they really due to negative temperatures? According to some researchers, the cold and dry weather is in itself a factor favoring the flu virus. And its consequences favor the transmission of seasonal infections.
Indeed, contrary to popular belief, the confinement is not the solution. He is even the first responsible. According to a 2009 report from the Institute for Public Health Surveillance on the Physiology of Cold, “ the tendency for the population to concentrate in confined and poorly ventilated spaces (when it is cold) increases the risk of cross-infection “. To prevent the spread of disease, Public Health France recommends washing your hands regularly with liquid soap, which is more hygienic than solid soap, and then drying them well. It is also best to use paper tissues afterwards, to be thrown in a closed trash can, and to cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze.
Eat balanced and avoid temperature shocks
Doctor Marie-Laure Alby, general practitioner, specifies on BFMTV: “ If you go out in the cold without being sufficiently covered, you are more likely to catch a virus. that if we are in a more temperate atmosphere “. Indeed, she explains that since the body is already busy fighting the cold, it then has less immune defenses and is therefore more exposed to viruses. How to protect yourself from this? Certain natural products will help your immune system during a cold period. Among the most famous products, royal jelly, propolis.
Ravintsara, used in essential oil, is recognized for its anti-viral properties. ” It is a plant that strengthens the immune system, which can also be anti-bacterial, anti-viral and which also stimulates the psyche, when we are tired, depressed, especially in winter, since we do not see much light. », Explains Florence, pharmacist in Paris, interviewed by BFMTV. Finally, like the rest of the year, a balanced diet will keep you in good shape. And eating too much fat is not a solution: it is better to focus on fruits and vegetables, especially those that provide vitamin C such as citrus fruits.
Marie-Eve Wilson-Jamin
Read also: 5 tips to survive the cold of winter