Experiencing symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, runny nose or cough can immediately make you jump to the novel Coronavirus as the bottom line in the current scenario. Fret not! There are other possible explanations for these symptoms that have nothing to do with COVID-19 at all. Seasonal allergies and common cold will land you in the same place, wreaking havoc on your health. Summer cold is one such common phenomenon and experts believe that we might see more of this in the coming year.
With the lockdown opening up and an increase in the social interaction, the transmission of respiratory virus is bound to increase. Given the fact that humans have been locked inside their houses for quite some time, their exposure to the outside world was very restricted. The immune system has not come in contact with certain viruses in a while and this might result in a higher number of summer colds.
We bring to you a breakdown of this common cold, its symptoms and its difference from COVID-19 to help you identify each of them and act accordingly.
Causes of summer colds
It is a common notion to witness cold and fever during winters or the spring season. The same reasoning can apply for a summer cold as well. When a person who is sick comes in contact with another human being, they tend to transfer the virus to the healthy individual. The most common viruses that can lead to common cold include the coronavirus, the ones beyond SARS-CoV-2, RSV and rhinoviruses. These viruses do not just disappear during summers but keep on circulating all year round. Depending on their nature, the viruses accelerate during a particular season while decelerating during another.
This is why you might find yourself tending to cold medicines and steam inhalers during summers as well. It is handy to have medicines and basic medical equipment at home all year long. You can buy a bp monitor, thermometer and a vaporizer online through platforms such as Health Skool Pharmacy. They are known for their quality products and services.
Symptoms of summer cold
The symptoms of a summer cold include:
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Headaches
- Body aches
In most cases, a healthy individual suffering from a summer cold would recover in 8-10 days but someone with a weakened immunity and/or chronic ailments might develop complications and take longer to heal.
Difference between summer cold and COVID-19
Given the times we are living in, it is extremely crucial to understand what you’re dealing with and take immediate action as per the results. Confusing the two can result in grave consequences and is a risk that no one should take at the moment. Since the symptoms of COVID-19 are incredibly similar to a common cold, and differ from individual to individual, it is best to get yourself tested.
Medical professionals state that as of now there is no reliable way to set the two illnesses apart without undergoing a COVID-19 test. Even if you have the symptoms of a common cold, get yourself tested at the earliest and isolate till you get the results. Intake of medicines and steam inhalation should become a ritual to swear by in such times. You can procure cough and cold medicine online in India through websites such as Health Skool Pharmacy without having to leave your homes. Practising social distancing and wearing a face mask at all times is highly advisable. This is for your as well as your near ones safety.
