Paraguay Health Ministry Advises on Respiratory Illness Prevention Amid Cold Snap

Paraguay's Ministry of Public Health is urging citizens to take precautions against respiratory illnesses as temperatures drop. The ministry highlights that sudden shifts between warm and cold environments can inflame the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, weakening the body's defenses.

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These brusque thermal changes alter the body's defense mechanisms.

Children and the elderly are identified as the most vulnerable groups during the colder season. To combat the increased risk, the health ministry emphasizes the importance of regular hand washing, ensuring proper ventilation of indoor spaces, maintaining hydration, and getting an annual vaccination against respiratory viruses.

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The groups most affected in the cold season are mainly children and the elderly.

Furthermore, the ministry advises individuals who develop fever or any respiratory symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough, or sore throat, to refrain from attending work or school. This measure aims to prevent the further dispersion of illness. They strongly encourage seeking medical consultation and resting at home until symptoms resolve.

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It is equally important to keep children's regular vaccination schedule up to date, especially for those under 5 years old.

The ministry also reiterated the importance of keeping children's regular vaccination schedules up-to-date, particularly for those under five years old. They also advise avoiding exposure to cold and to individuals exhibiting respiratory symptoms. For those who are ill, it is not recommended to visit the elderly, who often have underlying health conditions making them more susceptible to severe respiratory infections. Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with the inner elbow, rather than the hand, is also stressed to prevent germ transmission. The use of face masks is also encouraged.

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Seek medical consultation and rest at home.