Respiratory viruses more dangerous in winter months, we need to take all precautions, ensure universal use of masks, maintain social distancing, says flue experts

Srinagar, Dec 01: With Covid-19 set to enter its tenth month, there is a likelihood of increased transmission of the novel coronavirus virus during the winter months, health experts here in Kashmir said on tuesday.
“The next two-three months are very important. We need to take all precautions, ensure universal use of masks, maintain social distancing,” DAK President and influenza expert Dr Nisar ul Hassan told news agency KINS.
He said that in the coming winter months, “when respiratory viruses are more dangerous, we have to make efforts to bring a decline in the number of cases”.
“Winter season is seen as a breeding ground for viruses and infections. We must remember that the world is also witnessing a second peak. We are also detecting more severe forms of coronavirus cases as the season progresses,” he said.
He said that this is the time for it because, during winters, respiratory infections go up and, whatever else we may say for Covid, it is, after all, a disease that affects the respiratory tract and it is well known that respiratory infections happen more during the winter season.
Dr Nasar said that lack of sunshine in winters also depletes Vitamin D levels, thereby decreasing immunity, making us more susceptible to infections, including Covid-19.
“The effect of winters on Covid surge is yet to be seen, however wearing a proper mask, following hand hygiene and social distancing are the mainstay to prevent Covid-19 infection till the vaccine arrives,” he stressed.
In the past, the experts have witnessed that seasonal changes have had little effect on the spread of coronavirus. However, as we approach the winter months, experts have appealed for added caution.
The novel coronavirus that has traversed winter, spring, summer, monsoon, Autumn and now creating havoc in winter has proven to be an all-season virus which is currently spreading rapidly in India.
“Based on our knowledge of other respiratory viruses, it may be possible that the coronavirus infections might rise in the coming winter months” said one of the top chest specialists here wishing not to be named.
“Most respiratory illnesses like SARS, influenza, etc show a seasonal variation, with cases spiking in winter months. Viruses tend to survive longer in a cold and dry climate,” he explained.
Furthermore he said, low humidity promotes evaporation of viral particles and aerosol formations, which can increase the airborne spread of disease.