Cases of seasonal diseases may be higher due to a lack of exposure during the pandemic. Here are four graphs which give us some clues as to how things might play out.
Problems arise when there are too many unwarranted visits to GPs for cold symptoms. Occasionally, though, a cold might turn into something that needs specific diagnosis and treatment.
Enteroviruses and parainfluenza 3 virus are more common in summer.
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A new generation of vaccines and boosters against SARS-CoV-2 may take a page from the anti-influenza playbook, with shots periodically tailored to target the most commonly circulating virus strains.
The stress of exercising while sick could potentially make our immune cells less effective.
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Your rapid antigen tests say you’re COVID-negative but you still have cold symptoms. Generally, you should stay away from others until you’re well again.
The key is to avoid lip balms that contain certain additives which might worsen the problem. Instead, try balms that are bland and don’t contain flavours, fragrances and colours.
The common cold is usually caused by a rhinovirus.
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Rhinoviruses may play a critical role in controlling the spread of SARS-CoV-2 among the human population.
Viruses spread easier during the winter than other times of the year, but being outside isn’t the main cause of transmission.
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Going out in the cold won’t necessarily lead to you getting a cold. But cold weather in general is more hospitable to viruses, so it’s wise to take steps to keep your immune system strong.
Antibiotics do not shorten or reduce the severity of colds or flu, but they could produce adverse effects that make you feel even worse.
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Resistant bacteria aren’t the only risk posed by overprescribing antibiotics. A more immediate risk is side-effects and reactions, which a new review shows are surprisingly frequent and often severe.
Don’t be fooled. They don’t really have super powers.
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Reports describe a Hong Kong man who was reinfected with the coronavirus after returning from Europe. Does that mean he wasn’t immune after the first infection?
Consultant Microbiologist, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland and Professor and Head of Department, Clinical Microbiology, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences