Doctors advise elderly, children to take extra precautions during winter

Srinagar, Nov 1: As winter approaches, experts are advising the public, especially the elderly and children, to take extra preventive measures to avoid cold-related illnesses.
Noted pulmonologist Dr. Naveed Nazir said  that winter months often bring a rise in various respiratory diseases.

“Chest diseases, such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis, tend to worsen during winter. We see an increase in attacks and respiratory infections, which particularly affect children and the elderly,” he explained.
Dr. Nazir advised that high-risk patients, including children and elderly people, should avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure in winter. Vaccines, such as the influenza and pneumonia vaccines, can provide valuable protection against infections, though conditions like COPD require lifelong treatment, he said.
Flu shots are considered an effective defense against influenza, including strains like H1N1. Receiving annual flu shots is highly recommended, especially in cold regions like Kashmir, which are vulnerable to H1N1 outbreaks.
Dr. Nazir further advised that people should consider a pre-winter check-up to optimize their treatment plans.
“When treatment is optimized, symptoms are better managed. Vaccination and preventive measures, like avoiding exposure to infected individuals, are also beneficial,” he added.
Dr. Mohammad Shafi, a physician, stated the importance of vaccination for those over 50 and under five years of age. He said that vaccines are especially crucial for individuals with chronic conditions like lung, heart, liver, or kidney disease, and for groups such as the immunocompromised, pregnant women, diabetics, obese individuals, and healthcare workers.
He recommended getting the flu vaccine in October or by November 10. “The vaccine takes 2-3 weeks to build antibodies, so an annual flu shot is ideal around this time,” he said.
“Flu shots are essential for preventing influenza and reducing associated morbidity and mortality,” he added.