It is common for people to fall sick when seasons change. However, given the coronavirus outbreak, it’s likely a bad timing to get flu or allergy. A large part of the panic is from people who, with flu or allergy, are rushing to clinics and hospitals with the assumption that they have COVID-19.
This not only results in over-crowding of the medical and healthcare facilities but it is also spreading uncalled fright in the society. And if previous pandemics have taught us anything, it’s to not fall for or propagate paranoia.
So, while there’s never a bad time to focus on your health and prevent illnesses, now is perfect to take that more seriously. Prevent falling ill, take better care of yourself (and the family), and when you do fall sick, know how to recognize the symptoms and opt for adequate treatment.
Of course, there are many preventive ways to combat possible flu and allergy. One of them that’s highly relied upon – and even vouched by doctors, researchers and health experts – is to drink green tea.
How Green Tea Can Prevent Flu and Allergy?
The countless benefits of green tea are widely recognized. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition shows that consumption of green tea results in lower rates of influenza. The beverage includes catechins and theanine that work directly on impairing the activities of the viruses. This can help us prevent the flu. (Source 1)
Similarly, green tea is rich in antioxidants. It includes a compound called EGCG that blocks a key cell reception in our body from triggering any immune response to a wide range of allergens. Drinking a couple of cups of this beverage can add to our body’s defense mechanism, preventing us from falling sick. (Source 2)
Besides, we know tea, in general, can boost our immune system. Many studies have been done on this subject, underlining the same conclusion. So, whether a pandemic or not, drinking at least a cup of tea is always a good idea. (Source 3)
Identify the Symptoms
In case if you do fall ill, it’s important to recognize the symptoms and take appropriate measures accordingly
In the case of coronavirus, having a runny or stuffy nose is uncommon. You will experience shortness in breath, the severity of which will vary. The cough will usually be dry. Contrarily, with flu and allergy, runny or stuffy nose is very common. The cough might include mucus. There won’t be any shortness in breath or respiratory discomfort.
These symptoms are neither exhaustive nor conclusive. As COVID-19 is still a new type of virus that emerged in late 2019, a lot is still not known; experts are still learning new things about it every day.
Be a Responsible Citizen
It’s important that you keep an eye on the advisories of the government and your local community. In general, keep your hands clean; wash them often. Avoid touching your face with your hands. Maintain social distance in public. If not needed and if advised by your local authorities, avoid going outdoors.
At the same time, keep an eye on the developments as reported by the WHO. At all costs, avoid consuming news from unreliable sites and resources. Don’t believe in anything you receive on Whatsapp; do not forward unverified information regarding coronavirus on IM and social media.
Helpful Resources
Check out this page of the World Health Organization to follow the updates on COVID-19: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
Here’s advice for the public from WHO to fight coronavirus : https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
If you have any question regarding this virus, check this FAQ section of WHO: https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India has a dedicated site for coronavirus that gets updated regularly. You will find all the information here, including the number of coronavirus cases in the country. Check it out here: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/.
Take Care of Yourself
Follow the basic guidelines. Do everything in your capacity to protect yourself and the community from this pandemic. Don’t spread panic. And, most importantly, keep yourself shielded from any kind of illnesses. Drink green tea, spread awareness, and promote better health.
