During the cold season, there is an increased risk of developing respiratory diseases, which manifest themselves as a runny nose, cough, sore throat, and elevated body temperature. Particular attention should be paid to people who have had TB, as they are more susceptible to infections. Iryna Halan, PhD in Medical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Phthisiology and Pulmonology at Bogomolets National Medical University, and a top-level phthisiologist, shared some tips on how to keep your immune system strong.

“Hypothermia, lack of sunlight, changes in diet, and a decrease in the vitamin content of the diet negatively affect the body’s protective properties, increasing the risk of developing respiratory viral infections. Stress levels also increase during this period, which weakens the immune system. People who have had TB may be particularly vulnerable to infections during the cold season,” the doctor notes.

As Iryna Halan emphasizes, it is always better to prevent disease than to treat it. To do this, it is important to take care of your body.

You can strengthen your immune system by following simple rules that will protect you from viruses and colds:

• Dress appropriately for the weather, ensuring warmth and comfort.
• Practice good hygiene by washing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.
• Ventilate rooms regularly and maintain optimal humidity levels (40-60%).
• Ensure you get a full 8 hours of sleep.
• Eat a balanced diet, consume vitamin-rich foods, and drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid stress and find time for enjoyable activities.
• Stay physically active, even if it’s just walking.
• Avoid contact with sick people and maintain social distance.
• Consider vaccination after consulting with your doctor.

To strengthen your immune system, it is important to increase your vitamin intake. Namely:

Vitamin D: important for calcium absorption, bone tissue maintenance, and immunity.

Vitamin C: protects against viruses.

Vitamin A: supports mucous membranes.

Vitamin E: cleanses the body of toxins.

Minerals (zinc, selenium)**: support the immune system.

“In winter, the body stores energy due to the cold and short days, which increases appetite. To stay healthy, don’t skip nutritious breakfasts, and choose dried fruits instead of sweets for snacks — this improves brain activity. For lunch, choose hot first courses that warm you up and aid digestion. Spices are useful for improving blood circulation, provided you are not allergic to them, and fermented milk products are good for the intestinal microflora, which affects immunity,” the doctor noted.

The risk of recurrence of TB during epidemics of SARS and influenza remains. This is especially true if the immune system is weakened or the body is under stress. Another piece of advice from the phthisiatrician is to do exercises or practices for the respiratory system.

“Breathing exercises using various techniques, moderate cardio workouts (walking, yoga, swimming), and outdoor physical activities are beneficial for maintaining the respiratory system. However, before performing them, it is advisable to consult with a doctor and choose individually. In my opinion, regular walks in the fresh air are best,” shared Ms. Iryna.

At the same time, preventive vaccines may be recommended, in particular against influenza, pneumococcal infection, and COVID-19. It is important to consult with a doctor beforehand, especially if you have chronic diseases.

“For people who have had TB, vaccinations should only be given after consulting a phthisiatrician. It is important to make sure that the body has fully recovered from the underlying disease and that there are no active inflammatory processes in the lungs,” said the candidate of medical sciences.

“Do not delay seeing a doctor if you feel unwell, as viral infections can develop rapidly. Symptoms such as a high temperature lasting more than three days, a severe cough with bloody or purulent discharge, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe weakness, or sudden weight loss are particularly dangerous,” emphasizes the phthisiatrician.

Take care of your health. If you happen to catch a cold, see a doctor and stay home to fully recover!