With coronavirus cases at a high level and colds and flus flooring many of us, it is important to be 'symptom aware'.
Pharmaceutical chain Well Pharmacy are urging people to be aware of the dangers of respiratory infections as well as the differences between the common cold, flu and COVID-19.
Cases of the 'Supercold' have been sweeping the country as many of our immune systems have weakened due to the pandemic, reports WalesOnline.
The advice follows research carried out by Well Pharmacy. The study concluded that one in four men and one in three women felt that their immune systems had weakened during lockdown and the following coronavirus restrictions.
As winter is almost upon us, sales of cough and cold medicines have gone through the roof - increasing by 100 per cent.
The nationwide independent pharmacy is urging to people to become 'symptom aware' in order to tell the difference between things like the common cold - which can be treated easily at home - and other infections such as pneumonia causing more serious illness.
Wendy Lee, pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, said: “With news of a ‘Supercold’ sweeping the nation and a worrying increase in Covid-19 cases, it has never been more important for people to know the signs to look out for and to take preventative measures to keep themselves and their loved ones safe and well.
"In winter we spend much more times indoors, which allows viruses like flu, pneumonia and Covid to spread more easily due to low ventilation. It is never too late to think about our own immunity, especially in these cold winter months and as many of our immune systems have been compromised during lockdown.”
The pharmacy chain is also advising people on simple measures they can do to improve their immunity, with everyday tips including:
- Getting enough quality sleep
Going to bed at a similar time and waking up around the same time each morning can boost immunity.
- Eat the rainbow
A varied and balanced diet with an array of fruit and vegetables can help support our bodies through the darker months.
- Staying hydrated
The weather may be colder, but people still need to ensure they keep up their fluid intake. Herbal and fruit teas are perfect for the colder days.
- Get some sunlight
The days may be shorter but getting some daylight each day can make all the difference to physical and mental health.
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date
These include jabs such as flu and pneumonia vaccines.
Colds, flu, pneumonia and Covid all have similar symptoms. Well Pharmacy has compiled a chart to help recognise the signs, but it can often be hard to tell if a cold is something more serious as many of the symptoms overlap.
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