Autumn fog slowly settles on the windows, and thermometers relentlessly show ever-lower temperatures. Bus stops are crowded with runny noses, fellow passengers coughing on buses. In pharmacies, you can increasingly hear: "Something for a throat, something for a fever, something... anything." The infectious season is just beginning. 

During this time, queues form at family doctors' offices. Everyone has the same question: is it just a cold or something more serious? Fortunately, there are ways to take care of yourself and your loved ones before you head to the clinic. Dr. Ewa Jarowicz, an infectious disease specialist, discusses how to wisely survive the flu season.

STAY HOME BEFORE YOU SPREAD THE INFECTION

This is the first and most important recommendation. A headache, runny nose, feeling unwell, and a dry cough are classic symptoms of a mild viral infection. While they may seem trivial, they can be dangerous for someone older or chronically ill. So if you feel like something's "coming over you," stay home. Monitor your symptoms. By doing this, you protect not only yourself but others as well.

SYMPTOMATICALLY, BUT WITH CONSCIOUSNESS. WHAT CAN YOU DO YOURSELF?

Over-the-counter painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications, cough syrups, and vitamin C preparations are available in pharmacies. You can use the following to support your condition:

• home remedies, such as warm infusions with ginger or honey,
• rest, which is what most of us ignore,
• hydration, especially important with fever.

But be careful: if your symptoms worsen, you have shortness of breath, you can't bring down your fever, you develop a rash or you feel very weak, contact your doctor.

WEAR A MASK WHEN YOU GO OUT WITH AN INFECTION

It may be unpopular, but it's effective. Wearing a mask is a form of respect for others, especially the elderly or those with chronic illnesses. If you must leave your home, wear a mask. "I carry them in my car all the time," says Dr. Ewa Jarowicz. The pandemic has taught us this lesson, and it's worth using it.

DON'T FORGET SIMPLE HABITS: WASHING YOUR HANDS AND DISINFECTION

Frequent handwashing really works. During the infectious season, it's worth remembering these basic hygiene rules. Sanitizers and masks are still available at clinics. It's worth using them, even if "everyone has already forgotten about the pandemic."

PULSE OXIMETER AND BOTTLE OF WATER. YOUR ALLIES

Many homes have left pulse oximeters behind after the pandemic. If you feel shortness of breath, a cough persists, or your oxygen saturation drops, it may be reason to consult a doctor immediately. The same applies to... water. Dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization, especially among seniors. Hydrate regularly; it's more important than you think.

OBSERVE YOURSELF AND RESPOND TO WARNING SIGNALS

If the following occur:

• high temperature that you can't bring down,
• cough that makes breathing difficult,
• new skin lesions,
• feeling of shortness of breath, even when lying down,

These are symptoms that shouldn't be ignored. If this happens, don't delay seeing a doctor. Some infections can worsen quickly.

GET VACCINED AGAINST THE FLU. IT'S STILL A GOOD TIME

The flu vaccine is available in pharmacies and clinics. A single dose is enough to minimize the risk of severe illness and complications. It is especially recommended for:

• elderly people,
• chronically ill,
• healthcare and education workers,
• parents of small children.

The same applies to the COVID-19 vaccine, which is available at clinics. Flu and COVID are real threats that can be minimized. 

The text is based on a conversation with Dr. Ewa Jarowicz, an infectious disease specialist, podcast WHAT DOES YOUR DOCTOR SAY? We invite you to listen to the entire series devoted to infectious diseases: