Expert in virology, Alla Myronenko, clarified that warmer weather isn’t the primary cause of the increase in acute respiratory diseases, with an anticipated drop in occurrences by mid-March. She underscored the significance of preventative actions, such as using face coverings and ensuring air circulation.
During periods of fluctuating temperatures, a rise in viral illnesses, including the flu, is commonly anticipated by Ukrainians. Moreover, it’s widely believed that the change in weather conditions is what prompts a spike in acute respiratory viral ailments. For UNN , a more comprehensive explanation of when the count of viral infections surges, strategies for self-protection, and the anticipated decline in disease incidence was provided by virologist and Doctor of Medical Sciences, Alla Mironenko.
Details
Does the arrival of warmer temperatures truly initiate a growth in sickness rates? According to the virologist, the course of epidemics follows its distinct trends, which aren’t consistently linked to atmospheric conditions. To illustrate, during times of intense cold, the frequency of infections can paradoxically lessen as individuals reduce social encounters. However, in warmer spells, people are more susceptible to body temperature reduction, potentially encouraging the advancement of other respiratory contagions.
As a matter of fact, there’s limited confirmation that the change in weather directly correlates with a greater susceptibility to illness. When considering the influenza outbreak, completely separate dynamics come into effect. During severe chills, pupils are excused from classes, numerous individuals choose to remain indoors, and the illness rate might even dip marginally. Conversely, in milder weather, individuals may not constantly assess their attire appropriately, leading to reduced body warmth and the subsequent possibility of additional respiratory infections
– says the doctor.
When to expect a decline in viral diseases
Presently, the influenza virus is dominant in Ukraine, the virologist states, with no indications of COVID-19 in recent reports. Concurrently, additional common seasonal viruses are also in circulation.
Influenza currently takes precedence. While we’re testing for Covid, we’ve encountered no instances of it in the preceding weeks. In the past week, we detected adenoviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, and rhinoviruses, with metapneumoviruses also appearing the week prior. These constitute a variety of respiratory viruses, abundant in number, and vaccines against most are unavailable. Generally, they don’t induce severe difficulties, except in situations involving the elderly or young children
– emphasizes Alla Mironenko.
She mentions that the ongoing season is within the norm, and disease numbers are, in fact, less than those documented last year, although the season remains active. However, traditionally, a decrease in infections is projected for the latter part of March.
Looking at historical data spanning many years, the incidence has been on the decline since the second week of March. Influenza persists, but it doesn’t escalate to epidemic proportions. There have been uncommon instances where an increase began even around mid-March, but these are infrequent exceptions. Presently, we can assume that the epidemic is likely nearing its conclusion, although viruses will continue to be present
– emphasizes the virologist.
The expert attributes the spring drop in sickness to increased outdoor activity and better ventilation in indoor spaces.
The physician underscores that when the weather is mild, people tend to spend less time inside. There is ample sunlight, which is harmful to viruses because they are destroyed by ultraviolet exposure. She advises ventilating rooms more often, not as intensely as in -20-degree weather, but adequately when it's warmer. Ventilation also supports the eradication of respiratory viruses.
Regarding protective measures, Alla Myronenko highlights that the most straightforward techniques are still the most reliable. In crowded areas, using a mask is advisable, particularly for individuals in high-risk categories. Additional key steps include vaccination against the flu, exposure to sunshine, consuming vitamin-rich foods, especially citrus fruits, and frequently ventilating rooms.
A mask is beneficial – I can confirm that definitively. It functions as a safeguard for the respiratory system, defending both the wearer and those in their proximity. If it's feasible, allocate more time to sunlight exposure – this is how vitamin D is synthesized. Ventilating a space for 15 minutes is adequate; it's best to leave the area to avoid air currents. Preventing illness is preferable to contracting it, as there are no immunizations available for the majority of respiratory viruses
– emphasized the virologist