COVID-19 cases are currently declining, but there is an increase in rhinovirus, which causes common colds. Experts recommend getting flu and COVID vaccines, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding sick individuals to stay healthy during the respiratory virus season.
New research suggests that having a cold, particularly caused by rhinovirus, may reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 by 48%, possibly due to immune system priming, especially in children who naturally have higher interferon levels. However, experts caution against intentionally catching colds as a prevention strategy.
Research indicates that recent rhinovirus infections, which cause the common cold, may temporarily protect individuals, especially children, from COVID-19 by boosting the immune system through interferons, potentially explaining why children often experience milder COVID-19 symptoms.
Research suggests that having a recent cold, caused by rhinoviruses, may reduce the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 and lead to milder symptoms, possibly due to immune system activation, though it is not a foolproof protection and other precautions are recommended.
A study suggests that recent rhinovirus infections, which cause the common cold, may reduce the risk and severity of COVID-19, especially in children, by triggering antiviral gene expression. Additionally, COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce hospitalizations and deaths among kidney transplant and dialysis patients, while antibiotic use remains a major risk factor for C. difficile infections in hospitals. The UK reports a rise in H5N1 avian flu in poultry, and health authorities investigate travel-related measles cases in the US and Canada. Prasad resumes his role at the FDA, and the USDA deploys new measures to prevent screwworm spread.
A family medicine specialist explains that a lingering cough, even after testing negative for COVID-19, could be caused by one of the many respiratory viruses, such as rhinovirus, that can cause respiratory infections. Post-viral coughs, bronchitis, and post nasal drip are common culprits. It is important to follow up with a primary care doctor, especially if there is wheezing or shortness of breath. Steroids and over-the-counter medications like Flonase can help ease the discomfort, but if the cough worsens or is accompanied by chest pain or blood, immediate medical attention is necessary. This year's cases of lingering coughs and respiratory infections appear to be worse than last year's.
Dr. Konstantinos Papadopoulos, a family medicine specialist, explains that a lingering cough, even after testing negative for COVID-19, is often caused by one of the many respiratory viruses, such as rhinovirus, that can cause infections. These post-viral coughs can last for weeks and may be due to factors like post nasal drip or bronchitis. It is important to follow up with a primary care doctor, especially if there are additional symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath. While steroids and over-the-counter medications can help ease the discomfort, if the cough worsens or is accompanied by chest pain or blood, immediate medical attention is necessary. This year's cases of lingering coughs and respiratory infections appear to be worse than last year's, with an increase in RSV and a more severe viral season overall.