Smart ways to lower risks from contagious diseases—both for yourself and for others.
Many people assume that winter, not summer, is prime time for spreading infectious diseases, including upper respiratory conditions such as COVID-19 and gastrointestinal illnesses like norovirus.
But while virus-containing droplets can hang in the air longer and spread farther when it’s cold and dry, the truth is that infections—from both viruses and bacteria—can spread at any time. In fact, many infectious diseases, such as shingles and human papillomavirus (HPV), aren’t affected by weather conditions.
Still, despite the prevalence and anywhere-anytime nature of infectious illness, it’s possible to avoid spreadable diseases or reduce their impact if you do get infected, says Anubhav Singh, MD, an internal medicine physician affiliated with Jersey City Medical Center and a member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group. Here are some of the most important steps you can take to lower your risks.
- Establish healthy habits. Good nutrition, adequate sleep, healthy hydration and regular exercise boost the immune system, says Dr. Singh. “Someone who is sleep deprived, for example, is more immunocompromised,” he says. A healthy immune system can fight infection more easily, shorten the length of an illness and lower the risk of short- and long-term complications. Washing hands often—back, front and fingers—in addition to using hand sanitizers is also important, he says.
- Get vaccinated. Immunizations for diseases such as COVID-19, influenza, HPV, pneumococcal pneumonia and shingles not only lower your chances of getting sick, but also help ease symptoms and minimize consequences if you become ill, notes Dr. Singh. Being vaccinated also protects people around you, especially loved ones or others you encounter often. Studies show that the benefits of vaccinations outweigh any minimal risks.
- Recognize the signs. A sudden sore throat or unexplained headache can be one of the earliest signs of an infection, says Dr. Singh. Other early signs may include sudden changes in your skin (redness or tiny dots), changes in urination or bowel movements, nasal congestion, lack of appetite and fatigue. Treating symptoms as soon as they appear can help diminish their effects.
- Seek treatment. Many infectious illnesses don’t require treatment beyond rest, fluids, over-the-counter medication—and time. But for diseases such as COVID-19, strep throat, HPV and other sexually transmitted diseases, treatments such as antibiotics, antivirals and supportive care are often necessary, Dr. Singh says. It’s important to regularly visit a primary care physician who can guide your care.
- Be aware of complications. Your primary care physician can handle many types of infectious diseases, but in some instances, serious complications such as blood clots or changes in kidney function require specialists, says Dr. Singh. Your primary care physician can help refer you to appropriate experts.
- Follow up. If any symptoms such as fatigue, postnasal drip, cough, weakness or cognitive problems develop again or persist, reach out to your primary care physician, advises Dr. Singh. Your doctor can evaluate your condition and address the symptoms or make any necessary referrals.
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