Winter is here, and with it comes the season for colds and the ‘Flu. These illnesses can be particularly challenging for people living with disabilities, but with some simple precautions, you can minimise the risk of getting sick. Let’s delve into what colds and the ‘Flu are, how they are transmitted, ways to prevent them, and what to do if you notice symptoms or come down with one of these winter illnesses.
Understanding Colds and the ‘Flu: What's the Difference?
Colds and the ‘Flu are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses and can affect you differently.
Colds are usually milder than the ‘Flu. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, and a sore throat. You might also experience mild headaches, body aches, and a low-grade fever. Colds typically last for a few days to a week and are generally not serious.
The ‘Flu, on the other hand, can be more severe. It’s caused by the Influenza virus and can lead to high fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, and more intense headaches. The ‘Flu can also cause health complications, especially in vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and people with chronic health conditions or disabilities.
How Are Colds and the ‘Flu Transmitted?
Both colds and the ‘Flu are highly contagious and are mainly spread through tiny droplets made when people with the illness cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby or be inhaled into the lungs. You can also catch these viruses by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Simple Ways to Prevent Transmission
- Hand Hygiene: Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can help prevent the spread of viruses. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
- Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from people who are sick. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting ill too.
- Cover Your Mouth and Nose: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of the tissue immediately and wash your hands.
- Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces at home, work, or places you visit regularly.
- Stay Home When Sick: If you feel unwell, stay home from work, school, or social activities to prevent spreading the illness to others.
- Consider vaccination: Talk to your GP about getting a COVID-19 and/or ‘Flu vaccine.
What to Do When You Notice Symptoms
If you start experiencing symptoms of a cold or the ‘Flu, it’s important to take action quickly.
- Rest and Hydrate: Get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated. This helps your body fight off the infection.
- Over-the-counter (Pharmacy) Medications: Talk to your local pharmacy team to get their recommendation for over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms such as fever, headaches, and body aches. Always tell them about any other medications you’re taking, strictly follow the packet’s dosage instructions, and check with your GP if you have any concerns.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If they worsen, or you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe weakness, then seek medical attention right away.
- Stay Isolated: Stay at home and avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the virus. This includes avoiding visits to friends and family, especially those who are vulnerable to severe illness. If you are expecting support workers, family members or anyone else interacting with you, let them know you’re unwell and suggest they take infection control measures, e.g. mask, sanitiser etc.
- Consult your Healthcare Provider: If you have underlying health conditions or if your symptoms are severe, contact your healthcare provide/GP for advice. They will provide guidance on managing your illness and prescribe antiviral medications if necessary.
By taking these precautions, you can help minimise the risk of colds and the ‘Flu this winter. Remember, prevention is key to staying healthy and protecting those around you.
If you’d like to learn more, VIVA Mutual’s Support Centre team is always available to share our expertise and experience for the benefit of Support Coordinators, NDIS participants, and those who support them. Many of us live with disabilities ourselves and/or have family members with NDIS Plans too, so we know what we’re talking about.
For a confidential chat with one of VIVA Mutual’s understanding and supportive folks, please call 08 8877 8000 or send us an email via admin@vivamutual.org.