Don’t let cough and cold bog you down, listen to your doc

This picture has been used for representational purpose

A top physician and intensivist was a special guest at a recent interactive session on Covid-19 and monsoon maladies. While that talk was covered in this paper, it is interesting to highlight certain points overall that seem to be particularly apt for the season.

The stress was on monsoon related illnesses and Covid. One will not know if that deceptive cough and cold is rain-related or you have the Coronavirus. When in doubt, it is important to get a test and check that out. That is the only way to know for sure.

There is a great deal of self-medication and treatments one can learn from Google, especially in these times. Certain symptoms though need early and immediate investigation. It is vital that we even err on the side of ‘unnecessary' investigations, not every doctor or facility is out to fleece you of your money by ordering investigations. In some cases, it may warrant testing.

The most important takeaway though was that we should continue practising hygiene that will stand us in good stead not just during the pandemic but way beyond. A case in point is fewer cases of flu simply because people are practising very good hygiene in the wake of the outbreak. This is a practice that will help to dial back numerous infections, so the good habit should stick.

Self-medication, especially switching different antibiotics and yo-yoing between them in the hope of finding a solution is a complete no-no. Seek out sound medical advice. In these times, understandably, we do have digital consultations. Yet, when it is inevitable or urgent to visit a medical facility, you need to go and meet the doctor. The vaccine is important and make that a priority, never mind cynics and anti-vaxxers. As the third wave and Delta Plus variant loom, common sense is our first line in combating the Coronavirus.