7 things you need to know to prevent colds during the rainy season.

Many people are susceptible to sore throats, coughs, runny noses, nasal congestion, or fatigue after just a sudden rain shower. Effective prevention requires understanding the mechanisms of these illnesses and applying appropriate health care measures.

Content

1. Why is it easier to catch a cold in cold, rainy weather?
2. Effective measures to prevent colds
- Keep your body warm properly.
- Avoid getting your body wet in the rain.
- Boosts immunity
- Maintain personal hygiene
- Create a clean and well-ventilated living environment.
- Maintain an exercise routine.
- Limit contact with people who have a cold.
3. When should I see a doctor?

1. Why is it easier to catch a cold in cold, rainy weather?

Colds are primarily caused by respiratory viruses that spread through droplets, direct contact, or indirect contact. Rhinovirus is the most common cause, accounting for more than half of cold cases.

This type of virus thrives in low-humidity environments, especially during cold and transitional seasons. Besides Rhinovirus, many other viruses can cause the common cold, such as Coronavirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Enterovirus.

When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, droplets containing the virus are released into the air. Healthy individuals can become infected by inhaling these particles or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as doorknobs, phones, or keyboards, and then touching their nose, mouth, or eyes, allowing the virus to enter and attack the respiratory tract.

Besides the direct cause from the virus, many other factors also increase the risk of catching a cold, including:

Cold, humid weather: Low temperatures and high humidity create favorable conditions for viruses to survive and spread. Additionally, cold weather causes the mucous membranes of the nose and throat to contract, reducing their ability to resist viruses.
Weakened immune system: The elderly, children, pregnant women, people who lack sleep, experience prolonged stress, or have underlying conditions such as diabetes, sinusitis, or allergic rhinitis are more susceptible to colds due to a weakened immune system.
Living and working environments: Enclosed, crowded, and poorly ventilated spaces such as offices, classrooms, and apartment buildings are ideal conditions for the rapid spread of cold viruses.

7 điều cần biết để ngừa cảm lạnh trong mùa mưa- Ảnh 1. — Drinking enough water to keep the mucous membranes of the nose and throat moist helps prevent colds.

2. Effective measures to prevent colds

- Keep your body warm properly.

This is the most important measure. Please note: Wear a jacket or raincoat when going outside; cover your neck and keep your feet warm – the areas most susceptible to cold. Avoid wearing wet shoes. If your shoes get wet, change them immediately to avoid catching a cold. For young children and the elderly, it is especially important to keep their necks, chests, and ears warm.

- Avoid getting your body wet in the rain.

When you get caught in the rain, do the following: Dry yourself off and change clothes immediately. Take a warm shower to bring your body back to normal temperature. Dry your hair thoroughly because a cold scalp also weakens the immune system.

- Boosts immunity

A healthy immune system is a crucial "shield" against viruses, so it's important to eat a balanced diet, especially foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and strawberries. Supplementing with zinc and vitamin D helps strengthen the respiratory mucosa. Drink enough water to keep the nasal and throat mucous membranes moist. Get 7-8 hours of sleep each day.

- Maintain personal hygiene

Cold viruses can survive on hands, clothes, or objects: Wash your hands frequently with soap, especially after coming home from outside. Limit touching your face, nose, and mouth. Wear a mask in crowded places to reduce inhalation of virus-containing droplets.

- Create a clean and well-ventilated living environment.

During the rainy season, mold and bacteria are more likely to appear: Open windows to ventilate the house 1-2 times a day when the weather permits. Clean air conditioners and air purifiers regularly. Keep the house dry using a dehumidifier or ventilation fan.

- Maintain an exercise routine.

Regular exercise for 20-30 minutes each day helps increase blood circulation and boost immunity. You can choose light exercises such as walking, yoga, indoor cycling, or breathing exercises.

- Limit contact with people who have a cold.

The virus spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or sharing items. If a family member is sick: Limit close contact. Wear a mask when caring for them. Do not share cups or towels.

3. When should I see a doctor?

Although colds usually clear up on their own after 5–7 days, you should see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms: a high fever above 38.5°C that lasts for an extended period; a persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest tightness; a thick, green or yellow runny nose that lasts for more than 10 days (risk of sinusitis); or prolonged colds in the elderly, young children, or those with underlying health conditions.

In summary: The rainy season always poses many risks of colds, but they are entirely preventable if you understand the risks and protect your body properly. Staying warm, avoiding getting wet in the rain, boosting immunity, maintaining hygiene, keeping your home clean and well-ventilated, and seeing a doctor when necessary are important steps to protect your health. By proactively preventing illness now, you and your family will have a healthier and safer rainy season.