December 2024
Submitted by Ruth McInerney, Village Volunteer and Registered Nurse
Now that Winter is here, the need to protect ourselves against respiratory diseases is here as well. The following are taken from sites of the CDC Oct. 2024, AAPP Oct 2024, and WebMD Oct. 2024.
COVID 19.
Most likely there will be year-round outbreaks of Covid 19. To prevent illness which could be severe in immunocompromised individuals, and less severe but still causing unpleasant symptoms in the over 65-year-olds, vaccination is the key. An initial dose plus additional one spaced 6 months from initial (minimal interval is 2 months) is recommended.
Since outbreaks are unpredictable, it is advisable to stay updated on vaccination recommendations through your physician.
Testing is recommended if COVID 19 symptoms occur (may manifest like a common cold, or Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) including dry cough, nasal congestion, chills with fever (over 100.5), body aches, fatigue, shortness of breath, sore throat, headache.) Keep test kits on hand, and if positive, speak with your doctor right away, as treatment, i.e. with Paxlovid or other drugs, must begin within 5 days of symptoms.
PNEUMOCOCCAL PNEUMONIA.
Can cause serious disease in the elderly, with symptoms of the respiratory system, such as cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness; chills with fever; fatigue; leading to possible hospitalization with meningitis and blood stream illness.
There are vaccines available for Pneumonia disease for ages 50 – 65, ages where the bacteria can yield serious illness. Vaccines of one dose lasting a lifetime, from 1 – 3 doses, each depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
FLU – INFLUENZA
Flu virus can cause serious illness such as pneumonia and bacterial infections, resulting in hospitalization and deaths, particularly in the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions,
Vaccination composed of one dose annually offer protection against serious illness. It is best to get this early in flu season (Fall – early Winter) but may be received at any time during the outbreak for effectiveness.
With symptoms (headache, dry cough, sore throat, extreme fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fever) a test at the local health facility or doctor’s office can access an antiviral (ie Tamiflu) that may help alleviate symptoms and severity of illness. Works best if started early, no later than 2 days after symptoms appear.
RSV - RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS
Virus common in babies and young children; in elderly, can cause severe disease. In 60–79-year-old adults who are at high risk as with lung disease, heart disease, weak immune system, diabetes, other chronic conditions, RSV may result in pneumonia or other lung infections requiring hospitalization. Peak outbreak occurs December through February.
There is a vaccine available that can boost the body’s defenses and keep you from getting sick if you are infected. People 75 plus are eligible for the single dose vaccine, as are 60 -74-year-olds at increased risk for severe illness. Over 80 shows limited evidence of effectiveness.
Symptoms of RSV include cough, cold-like symptoms, fever, body aches, trouble breathing (wheezing). Treatment includes rest, fluids, over the counter meds such as Ibuprofen, humidifier.
For Grandparents caring for small grandchildren: Under 6 months disease could be life threatening. During outbreak months, wise to avoid hosting large gatherings including small children; don’t share cups, spoons, eating utensils; no kissing; avoid touching face, mouth, nose; clean surfaces often (virus can live 6 hours on surfaces); wear masks if you have any symptoms of respiratory infection (cold, COVID, RSV).
GENERAL SUGGESTIONS
All seasonal illnesses are caused by droplet infection, thus wearing masks, washing hands often and/or using hand sanitizer, avoiding crowds when possible, staying home if feeling ill are prudent precautions to avoid these illnesses.
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