By DR. MIRIAM LAKER-OKETTA
Over the last several weeks, a common topic of conversation in many places in Uganda has been the increasing incidence of coughs and flu, making both adults and children sick enough to seek medical attention and need bed rest. Common colds are common respiratory symptoms, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. It is highly contagious and can easily spread through cough droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces. Flu, on the other hand is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. While common cold and flu symptoms are usually similar – cough and nasal congestion and discharge; flu tends to be more severe. Common cold often starts gradually, brings on a sore throat, stuffy nose and sneezing, flu on the other hand only has these symptoms sometimes. Most often, it starts abruptly, the sufferer complains of body aches, headaches, fevers (high body temperature, chills (feeling cold even on a hot day).
In countries with long cold winters, flu can be deadly, especially for the elderly, young children and those with weak immune systems. In Uganda, as in many countries, common colds and flu cases increase when schools open. This is because as younger children’s immune systems develop, hey are exposed to different strains of viruses and bacteria that their schoolmates bring to school. Thus, children have a lot of contact play, are often together in closed rooms, cough and sneeze without covering their mouths, don’t wash their hands well or at all. Children pick these bugs and distribute them to their family members who then spread it to other people they have contact with.
Another major factor contributing to the rise in respiratory infections is air pollution. Uganda is a developing country with many industries and transport systems relying on fossil fuels. This results in high levels of air pollution, which can cause respiratory problems, such as coughs and asthma. To combat this problem, the government has implemented measures, such as banning old vehicles and promoting the use of cleaner energy sources.
The Covid-19 pandemic has also contributed to the rise in respiratory infections in Uganda. Due to the pandemic, many people have been hesitant to seek medical attention, fearing they might contract the virus in healthcare facilities. This has led to delays in diagnosis and treatment of respiratory infections, which can worsen the condition and lead to complications. Health authorities are advising people to seek medical attention if they experience any respiratory symptoms, as early detection and treatment can prevent the spread of infections.
TREATING COMMON COLDS
Most times, common colds can be treated symptomatically. Sore throat may be soothed using lozenges, ginger and honey, using other minty concoctions like eucalyptus and mint. Some people swear by onions and garlic but some find it unpalatable. There are also a number of medicines to relieve cough, the doctor will prescribe depending on if one has a dry cough or a productive cough. If a common cold causes fever, chest pain and difficulty in breathing,
“For both the common cold and flu,
vitamin C as tablets or from fruit like
oranges, limes and lemons quicken
healing of the respiratory system.”
medical attention is required. Sometimes, it may be evolving into a pneumonia, which needs more intense treatment by a professional. The flu is also primarily treated symptomatically: medicine for the pains and fever, plenty of fluids, plenty of rest. For both the common cold and flu, vitamin C as tablets or from fruit like oranges, limes and lemons quicken healing of the respiratory system.
PREVENTING COMMON COLD AND FLU
One of the major contributors to the rise in respiratory infections is poor hygiene. Many people in Uganda lack access to clean water, sanitation and soap, which are essential for preventing the spread of infections. Additionally, many people in Uganda are not aware of proper handwashing techniques, which can also contribute to the spread of diseases.
To address this problem, the government has launched several hygiene campaigns, urging people to practice good hygiene and providing education on proper handwashing techniques. At a personal level, we should uphold these hygiene practices. Whenever we cough or sneeze, do it in the elbow, in a tissue, or inside your shirt/blouse. Wash hands or use a sanitizer, use handkerchief only once, reusing a handkerchief means you will continually touch and spread germs wherever you touch. Avoid handshakes.
Dr Miriam has advanced training in Epidemology and Biostatistcs. Her current research focus is HIV associated mailgancies, specifically Kaposi’s sarcoma and cervical cancer epidemiology, early detection, diagnosis and treatment. She is also cofounder of the Hub for African Women in Science(AWiSH)
