According to independent pharmacist, Rita Ghelani, this winter we are likely to see an increase in colds and flu
Last winter, (2020) cases of flu in the UK were around 95 percent lower than normal, according to the Royal College of General Practitioners. Ghelani explains, in a message sent to Digital Journal, that this is “due to the COVID-19 lockdown and other measures such as mask wearing and social distancing.”
This are set to change, explains Ghelani: “This year, scientists are concerned that during autumn and winter influenza cases may increase, as COVID-19 restrictions are eased, and people start to socialise and return to the workplace.”
There are consequences about the anticipated rise for 2021 and the lack of exposure to pathogens in 2020. Ghelani states: “There is concern that the low number of flu cases during the 2020/21 winter has led to low levels of immunity to flu viruses for the coming season. This means that the population may be entering flu season with a higher level of susceptibility than usual.”
In addition to Ghelani, Public Health England are also concerned that this, combined with a possible increase in the rates of COVID-19 cases will mean that this winter will again be highly unpredictable.
Ghelani notes: “For this reason, the seasonal flu immunisation programme has been expanded even further, with all over 50s being offered the vaccine again this year, as well as young people in secondary school in years 7-11 now being offered the vaccine for the first time.”
There are other measures in addition to vaccination, says Ghelani. She puts forward: “As well as the vaccination programme, PHE are emphasising that following the good hygiene habits that we have all become used to during the pandemic are an important defence against a range of infections, including flu. This includes hand washing regularly for 20 seconds, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell.”
Ghelani’s other self-help tips to for the winter months include the following:
- Using a nasal barrier product to help stop viruses from coming to contact with the lining of the nose.
- Gargling with salt water regularly to help clear away any viruses or bacteria that may have hit the back of the throat.
- Using saline nasal spray daily to cleanse the nasal passages and remove any viruses or allergen particles that have lodged in the nasal mucus, for example Xlear Nasal Spray. These types of products lower the risk of rebound congestion and aids in restoring the natural mucus production of the nose.
Ghelani says that “Rebound congestion is a worsening of nasal congestion due to continued use of synthetic nasal decongestant sprays”, something that can add to the seasonal woes.
