Flu season: whole-body care

When flu season arrives, our bodies are more exposed to infectious agents that affect the respiratory system. It is essential to stay informed about three key illnesses: influenza (the common “flu”), COVID-19 (caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus), and infections caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma (particularly Mycoplasma pneumoniae). Below, we explain how to identify and prevent them for better protection of your health.

Influenza

Influenza is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs.

Course and symptoms:

It usually appears quickly, generally two to three days after exposure to the virus. It may present with fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion or runny nose, muscle aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. In children, vomiting or diarrhea may occur; this is less common in adults.

How it spreads and who is at higher risk:

• The virus travels in droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes
• Those with compromised immune systems are more vulnerable.
• People with multiple chronic illnesses.

Prevention and treatment:

• Good practices: handwashing, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding contact with sick people, and wearing a mask in crowded places.
• When symptoms appear: rest and isolate yourself, stay well hydrated, and, in high-risk cases, take antiviral treatment.
• Annual vaccination is the best defense.

COVID-19

Although it is not a “flu,” during flu season, there is a risk of increased incidence of the COVID-19 virus at the same time, so it is vital to be aware of this. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are many similarities and some differences between COVID-19 and influenza.

Similarities in symptoms:

Fever, cough, fatigue, sore throat, congestion, muscle aches, and headache. In both illnesses, shortness of breath can appear, and the disease can range from mild to very severe.

Key differences:

• Cause: COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus; influenza is caused by influenza A or B viruses.
• Incubation period: For influenza it is usually 1 to 4 days; for COVID-19 it can range from 2 to 14 days.
• Contagiousness: COVID-19 can spread more easily and for a longer period than influenza.
• Complications: Although both can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, or death, COVID-19 has shown a higher risk of hospitalization and death in certain populations.

Prevention:

• Continue good hygiene practices (masks in enclosed spaces, ventilation, isolation if you have symptoms).
• If you have symptoms, get tested and consult a health professional to receive appropriate treatment.
• Keep your influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations up to date in the recommended groups.

Mycoplasma (Mycoplasma pneumoniae)

Less well-known than influenza or COVID-19, Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can increase during the season and requires attention. According to the CDC, the bacteria can cause respiratory infections and atypical pneumonia, and cases have recently risen.

Causes, transmission, and symptoms:

• It is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which damages the lining of the throat, trachea, and lungs.
• It is transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes; infection usually occurs after prolonged close contact.
• Symptoms can appear between 1 and 4 weeks after exposure.
• It may present as a persistent cough, fatigue, fever, sore throat, congestion, and even mild pneumonia.

Prevention and treatment:

• Hygiene measures (frequent handwashing, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing) are essential.
• In many cases, the infection is mild and resolves on its own; in cases of pneumonia or other complications, specific antibiotics (macrolides, tetracyclines, or fluoroquinolones) are required, since some common antibiotics are not effective.

Why is it important to consider all three illnesses?

During flu season, influenza is not the only active pathogen: several respiratory agents may circulate at the same time. In addition, symptoms can overlap, which complicates timely diagnosis and treatment.

For example, both influenza and COVID-19 can cause almost identical symptoms, and only medical testing can distinguish one from the other. Mycoplasma pneumoniae could be mistaken for a “prolonged flu” or mild pneumonia if it is not considered.

Respiratory complications from any of these agents can worsen if the person has chronic conditions, is older, or has a weakened immune system.

For these reasons, approaching flu season in an integrated way with information, prevention measures, and medical consultation when symptoms appear, helps improve overall health and reduce risks.

Practical tips to care for your body this season

• Practice good respiratory hygiene: wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid touching your face, and ensure that indoor spaces are well ventilated.
• If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or intense fatigue, do not ignore them: consult a health professional, who can correctly diagnose whether it is influenza, COVID-19, Mycoplasma, or another agent.
• Getting enough rest, staying well hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals all help strengthen your body.
• If you have chronic conditions, are pregnant, or are over 65, take extra precautions, as your risk of complications is higher.
• Get vaccinated against influenza and keep your COVID-19 vaccination up to date if you are eligible.

Conclusion

Flu season is a period when the body is more vulnerable to respiratory infections such as influenza, COVID-19, and those caused by Mycoplasma. Understanding their characteristics, how they spread, their symptoms, and how to prevent them allows you to better protect your overall health. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen: if you feel something is not right, consult a specialist.

We invite you to visit the medical directory at https://saluspr.com/en/medical-directory/ and schedule an appointment with professionals who can support you during this season and help care for your overall well-being.