Winter has arrived and so has the cold and flu season. Prevention and preparation are key to staying safe this winter, especially if you are living with a lung condition.
While the cooler months present a higher risk for many, there are things you can do to protect yourself and keep your lungs healthy. Follow Lung Foundation Australia’s expert tips to stay healthy over the cold and flu season.
Tips to stay safe this winter:
- Clean your hands often to help protect you from germs. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Carry a small bottle with you for ease
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth: Viruses and bacteria can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth
- Remember cough etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Throw used tissues in the bin immediately
- Wear a mask: Don’t be afraid to wear a mask just because they are no longer mandatory, especially if you are visiting busy areas or facilities such as hospitals, medical centres or busy shopping centres. Additionally, it’s okay to ask your loved ones to wear one for added protection
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Physical distance can help reduce the risk of viruses spreading
- Ensure your vaccinations are up to date: Ask your GP about influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, whooping cough and RSV vaccinations. The annual influenza vaccine is free for adults 65 years and over, all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults and people with specific medical conditions. Ask if you are eligible vaccines, and if you have had them, are they up to date?
- Practice good hygiene: Cleaning frequently touched surfaces, such as benchtops, handrails, phones, keyboards, car wheels and doorknobs regularly, helps prevent the spread of germs.
- A healthy diet plays an important role in better wellbeing, especially when living with a lung condition and your immune system is compromised. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C
- Improve air quality by opening doors and windows to allow fresh air movement inside when it’s not cold. Air quality affects everyone’s health
- Stay home if you are unwell. This will ensure you don’t spread virus onto others.
If you do get sick this winter:
If you are living with a lung condition or caring for someone who is, it’s important to take extra care when illness does occur through the winter months. Kate Smith, Lung Foundation Australia Respiratory Care Nurse suggests:
- Take your antiviral medication if you have been prescribed them. Antiviral medications work best when started quickly and within a few days of onset of symptoms
- Talk with your GP if you are at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 or influenza. Together, you can develop a plan to ensure you can access antiviral treatment quickly
- If you have an Action Plan for your lung condition– check your symptoms and follow the steps carefully. This is why these plans are developed, to help when in need
- Drink plenty of water to keep well hydrated
- Rest up: your body needs to recover from the infection and preserve its energy to fight the infection
- Avoid close contact with other individuals who are unwell. You don’t want to risk their health or make yours worse. If you are unable to avoid people who do have flu-like symptoms, such as members of your household, then encourage them to wear a mask. A mask will provide you both with added safety.
Exacerbations during winter months
If you are living with a lung condition like COPD, exacerbations may be more common during winter. Exacerbations, or flare-ups are characterised by worsening of your symptoms including increased breathlessness, coughing and/or secretions such as mucous from the lungs. This may happen over a few days.
If your symptoms worsen see your doctor for treatment as soon as possible. Ensure you have already prepared a COPD Action Plan with your doctor.
Talk to your doctor if you are not sure what to do when you have an exacerbation.
Know the signs of an exacerbation (CHAT):
- Coughing more than usual
- Harder to breath than usual
- Any change in sputum (phlegm)
- Tired more than usual (less active).
If you have these symptoms have the CHAT with your doctor.
Connect to care
Understanding your condition and how to manage it can make all the difference. Staying safe this winter doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, just take a few extra precautions. Lung Foundation Australia’s Information and Support Centre team are available to provide trusted guidance and practical tips, and to connect you with resources and support services to help you live well with lung disease or lung cancer. You can reach our team during business hours via free call 1800 654 301 or book a call below.
