In recent times, many people have noticed that respiratory illnesses, such as the flu, common colds, and viral coughs, seem to be lingering longer than usual. According to medical specialists, this observation is not just anecdotal; hospitals and clinics have seen a marked increase in patients dealing with persistent symptoms of respiratory infections. The illnesses, primarily caused by viruses such as influenza A, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and others, can leave individuals coughing or congested for weeks—even up to a month or more in some cases.
In the Southern Hemisphere, these prolonged symptoms have been particularly noticeable since early May, coinciding with the arrival of the first cold spells in various regions. The sudden shifts in temperature and the reduced vaccination rates seem to have exacerbated the situation, leading to prolonged illness durations.
Why Are Respiratory Illnesses Lasting Longer?
Several factors have contributed to the longer duration of symptoms during this year’s respiratory illness season. According to pulmonologist Dr. Fernando Piumatti, low vaccination rates have led to continued transmission of the virus, which can cause symptoms to persist longer than usual. Additionally, the colder temperatures force people indoors, where ventilation is poor, facilitating the spread of these illnesses.
Dr. Marcelo Mené, another pulmonologist, points out that climate changes, such as unseasonably cold weather, have created ideal conditions for the spread of viruses, further complicating recovery. He explains that most viral upper respiratory infections typically last 7 to 10 days, but this year, symptoms seem to persist between 5 and 14 days or longer, depending on the virus and the individual’s immune status.
While the exact reasons for this prolongation are still under study, experts suggest several contributing factors:
- New Viral Strains: Constant viral evolution has led to strains that may cause longer-lasting symptoms.
- Weakened Immune Systems: Reduced exposure to viruses during the pandemic and lower vaccination rates may have weakened immune defenses.
- Co-Infections: The possibility of contracting multiple viruses at the same time can complicate recovery.
- Chronic Inflammation: Some viral infections can trigger lingering inflammation in the airways, prolonging symptoms even after the virus itself has been cleared.
The Importance of Checking Body Temperature Twice Daily
Given the persistence of symptoms and the risk of co-infections, it is crucial to monitor your health closely when dealing with prolonged respiratory illnesses. One simple and effective way to do this is by regularly checking your body temperature.
A rise in body temperature, particularly if it persists for more than a couple of days, may indicate the onset of a secondary infection, such as bacterial pneumonia, which can follow a viral illness. Fever is one of the most important indicators of infection, and tracking your temperature can help you decide whether it’s time to seek medical advice.
Using a reliable and accurate thermometer, like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer, ensures that you get a clear picture of any changes in your body temperature. This thermometer is easy to use, offering quick, non-invasive readings that can be taken twice daily with minimal hassle.
Monitoring your temperature twice a day is especially important for the following reasons:
- Detecting Secondary Infections: If you notice a sudden rise in temperature after several days of mild or no fever, this could indicate a secondary bacterial infection, which requires prompt medical attention.
- Tracking Fever Duration: A fever that lasts more than 2-3 days should not be ignored, as it could signal complications.
- Preventing Severe Complications: Regular temperature checks help ensure you catch potential complications before they become severe, particularly if you have underlying health conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
In times when respiratory infections seem to linger longer than usual, monitoring your health is more important than ever. Regularly checking your body temperature, using a reliable thermometer like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer, can help detect early signs of complications and guide you in seeking medical care when necessary. Maintaining this routine is a small but crucial step toward ensuring a timely recovery from respiratory illnesses and preventing more severe health issues.
Source:
EXERGEN P/N 850237, Rev 1