Down with viral fever? Dos and don'ts to follow

Viral fever is a common condition that can strike anyone at any time. Change of season, especially the retreating monsoons or winter to summer transition, is prime time for viral fevers. To most people, viral fever spells influenza, or simply ’flu. There are several kinds of viral fever which can be confused with bacterial fevers since their symptoms tend to be similar.

Dr. Sunita Kapoor director & consultant pathologist at City X-Ray and Scan centre says, “Seasonal influenza/ viral fever spreads easily, with rapid transmission in crowded areas including schools and nursing homes. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, droplets containing viruses (infectious droplets) are dispersed into the air and can spread up to one meter, and infect persons in close proximity who breathe these droplets in. The virus can also be spread by hands contaminated with influenza viruses.”

Pregnant women, children, the elderly, individuals with chronic medical conditions and individuals with immunosuppressive conditions (such as HIV/AIDS, receiving chemotherapy or steroids, or malignancy) are at a higher risk of viral fever. Health care workers are at high risk acquiring influenza virus infection due to increased exposure to the patients and risk further spread particularly to vulnerable individuals.

“Pain in the muscles and joints, headache, exhaustion, a runny nose or sore throat, a rise in body temperature, frequent chills, and dehydration are initial signs of a viral infection. High body temperature, a cough, a sore throat, muscle soreness, a headache, and fatigue should not be ignored,” says Dr. Kapoor.
Here are some tips for dealing with viral fever:

Get lots of rest and sleep.

Drink plenty of liquids, such as water, soup, and fruit juice, to stay hydrated. Maintain a chart of your fever at four-hour intervals Use pain relievers to lessen your fever, such as paracetamol But, before taking any other medication, always check with your doctor.

While sneezing or coughing, keep your mouth and nose covered.

To maintain moisture in the air and make breathing easier, use a humidifier.

Consume a balanced diet that contains fruits, vegetables, and foods high in protein.

Remember to get medical help if your fever lasts longer than three days or if you develop any serious symptoms like confusion, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.

Antibiotics should not be used for self-medication as they are ineffective against viral illnesses.
Avoid drinking alcohol because it can increase your symptoms and lead to dehydration.
Avoid engaging in vigorous exercise or physical activity.
Smoking can irritate your respiratory system, so try to avoid doing either.
Never lend out personal belongings to strangers, including towels, utensils, and glasses.
Do not disregard your symptoms because they could intensify and cause life-threatening complications.