Understanding the Increase in Winter Illnesses
During autumn and winter, many people feel they “get sick more often.” It’s not just perception; in Mexico, cases of respiratory diseases significantly rise during this season.
According to experts from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), cold weather alters both the environment and our bodies, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to circulate. This includes common colds to more severe infections like pneumonia, influenza, or COVID-19.
Mauricio Rodríguez: UNAM’s Spokesperson on Epidemiological Risks
Mauricio Rodríguez, a professor at the Faculty of Medicine and spokesperson for the UNAM’s Program on Epidemiological Risks and Emerging Threats (PUIREE), explains that each year, according to data from the Secretary of Health, the largest increase occurs in January.
Factors Contributing to Winter Illnesses
Dry Air and Reduced Ventilation
Winter creates environments with less humidity, increasing the circulation of microbes. Additionally, low temperatures cause people to close windows or confine themselves in smaller spaces, facilitating virus transmission.
Changes in Body’s Defenses
Cold air directly affects the respiratory system. The mucous layer, which normally traps dust and microorganisms, becomes thinner or dries up, hindering its ability to capture pathogens.
Moreover, the cilia—small structures acting like brushes to expel mucus—move less in the cold. This allows microbes to remain longer and multiply more easily.
Dehydration and Weakened Immune Response
Low temperatures prompt the body to regulate internal heat, a process requiring water. If not enough water is consumed, dehydration reduces the production of nasal and throat secretions, further weakening defenses.
“One thing leads to another,” summarizes Rodríguez. The cold, combined with thermal stress and microbe presence, creates the perfect scenario for increased infections.
Distinguishing Symptoms: Allergy, Common Cold, or Something More Serious
The expert explains that during this season, it’s common to confuse illnesses. Here are some key signs:
- Seasonal Allergy: watery eyes, nasal congestion, clear and runny mucus.
- Common Cold: sneezing, throat irritation, changes in mucus characteristics.
- Pharyngitis: pain while swallowing, coughing, or speaking.
- Laryngitis: hoarse or aphonic voice.
All these conditions should be evaluated by a doctor. However, there are warning signs requiring immediate attention:
- Fever
- Joint and head pain
- Extreme fatigue
- Persistent cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Blue lips or fingers
- Somnolence
These symptoms may indicate more serious infections like influenza, COVID-19, or pneumonia, the latter being the most severe due to reduced blood oxygenation.
Misuse of Antibiotics: Another Winter Risk
Rodríguez warns that winter also sees an increase in indiscriminate antibiotic consumption. Many people take them without a prescription, which is not only ineffective but can also lead to bacterial resistance.
The recommendation is clear: avoid self-medication and consult a doctor if any signs of infection appear.
Preventive Measures and Strengthening Immune Response
Rodríguez suggests several preventive measures and ways to bolster the immune response:
- Breathe air that’s not excessively cold.
- Get adequate sleep.
- Drink plenty of plain water.
- Ventilate enclosed spaces, even briefly.
- Wash hands frequently.
- Cover your mouth with your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
- Wear masks if symptoms appear.
- Protect vulnerable groups: children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions.
While vaccines against COVID-19, influenza, or pneumococcus help prevent complications, they don’t eliminate all risks, according to the expert. “Even if you’re vaccinated, don’t be complacent and take care when you have symptoms to stop transmission,” he advises.
