Sharp temperature fluctuations throughout the day are creating ideal conditions for viral infections to spread, with a recent outbreak of viral gastroenteritis in the past two weeks now giving way to respiratory infections, medical experts say.
The daily temperature variations particularly affect the upper respiratory tract, with many people already experiencing initial symptoms such as runny nose and sore throat. This marks the beginning of the seasonal infection period, including flu, common cold, and COVID-19, which can range from mild to severe depending on individual circumstances.
Dr Panayiotis Demosthenous, a general practitioner within the national health system, told the newspaper that disease severity depends on two key factors. “The more virulent the virus, the more easily it penetrates and multiplies in our body”, he explained. He added that “the body’s immune defence” is crucial, noting that “elderly individuals or those with multiple health issues such as asthma, heart conditions, or those undergoing chemotherapy may experience more severe illness”.
Common symptoms include “fever, dry cough, muscle pain, sore throat, and runny nose”, typically appearing “one to four days after contact with an infected person”, according to Dr Demosthenous.
Most seasonal infections are self-limiting and resolve with rest and sleep. The doctor emphasised the importance of self-isolation for a day or two, both for personal recovery and to prevent virus transmission. He noted that infections affect both respiratory and musculoskeletal systems, leading to severe fatigue where “walking 100 metres feels like a kilometre”.
Treatment recommendations include increased fluid intake targeting three litres daily, use of mild antipyretics like paracetamol even for low-grade fever (above 37.5°C), and nasal decongestant sprays. The doctor advised against smoking, sending sick children to school, or exposing vulnerable individuals like grandparents to infection.
Dr Demosthenous stressed that managing seasonal infections “is everyone’s responsibility” and called for community cooperation to minimise large outbreaks. He reminded that while these infections cause temporary discomfort for many, they can be dangerous for vulnerable individuals, with fatalities recorded both locally and internationally each year.
Medical attention should be sought for persistent fever above 38.5°C unresponsive to antipyretics, productive cough with green phlegm, or severe symptoms lasting beyond three days. While prevention is challenging due to the widespread presence of viruses, maintaining good hygiene practices remains crucial for protection.
Regarding vitamin supplementation, Dr Demosthenous suggested a measured approach, recommending natural sources such as citrus fruits rather than high-dose supplements. “Two servings of citrus fruits daily plus lemon in food provides sufficient vitamin C without the need for purchases”, he advised.
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