The cold weather is amongst us as the national weather forecast announced a freeze warning for most of Ohio today. This means a higher risk of catching a cold or flu. We have already written an article on the hazards of cold weather on our blog. Check it out for more information on how to remain prepared for the cold by clicking here. There are many measures an older individual can take to ensure that they are staying safe this winter season. Lets start by learning more about the types of flu an individual can catch.
Bird flu is a called avian influenza and it affects birds. and although very rare people can get infected. The stomach flu is an infection of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus. (Mayo Clinic) There are four types of influenza; influenza A. influenza B, Influenza C, and influenza D. These are viruses that cause seasonal epidemics in humans and are called the flu in flu season. (“Influenza (Flu) Overview: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment | Pfizer”) The do tend to occur in the winter time. These tend to spread easily amongst humans and have symptoms like cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, fever or chills muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. So what is the difference between the common cold, flu, and COVID-19? the flu and COVID-19 both stem from different viruses the only way to know the difference is to get tested. (“Influenza (Flu) Overview: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment | Pfizer”)
There is more you can do as a precaution you can have your home prepared for the winter. Having extra supplies, batteries, and emergency contact information is a good idea and ensures you don’t get stuck in the cold. Keeping your home warm is a good idea especially if you have a diagnosis that prevents your body temperature from remaining stable. Diagnosis like diabetes, thyroid problems, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and memory problems can make it more difficult this winter season. (Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults, 2024) Finally preventing any and all exposure to the freezing temperatures by having everything you need like scarf , hat, boot, socks, sweaters, and coats.
Older adults are at a greater risk for severe flu-related complications like pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death. Remaining aware of the symptoms, precautions, and actions to take when feeling the cold or flu coming on. It is always a good idea to seek help sooner rather than later for early intervention. This is due to changes in the immune system that are age related. This is why vaccinations are very important for older adults because it helps reduce the risk of severe illness and complications. There are also specific vaccine doses or high doses that a senior can take that offers better protection. There are more prompt precautions you can take like washing your hands and maintaining basic hygiene. Also avoiding contact with individuals who have been diagnosed with the flu or cold. Finally regular check-ups can and talking to your doctor or generally remaining informed can help in protecting your wellness. (ChatGPT, OpenAI) For more information please visit the official CDC website.
Citation:
“Influenza (Flu) Overview: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment | Pfizer.” Www.pfizer.com, pfizer, www.pfizer.com/disease-and-conditions/influenza. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.
Cold weather safety for older adults. (2024, January 3). National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/cold-weather-safety-older-adults. Accessed Sept. 2024.
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT. Retrieved October 16, 2024, from https://www.openai.com/chatgpt
Mayo Clinic. “Viral Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu) - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic, 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/viral-gastroenteritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378847. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.