How to protect yourself from colds in autumn

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In autumn, people are particularly susceptible to catching colds
11:34, 01.11.2023

In autumn, when the weather starts to get rainy and cool, people become more prone to upper respiratory colds.



This is due to a decrease in ambient temperature, which leads to a decrease in the body's immunity and an increase in the risk of infection with viruses and bacteria.

Acold is a conventional term for inflammatory processes of the respiratory tract caused by hypothermia. Symptoms of a cold may include runny nose, cough, throat, glands, runny nose, stuffiness, runny nose, scaling, headaches and fever.

Colds can be caused by over 200 different viruses, with rhinoviruses being the cause in the majority of cases, and bacterial infection being found in only 5% of cases. The common cold is a fairly contagious disease

Some of the main routes of transmission of the common cold include:

  • Inhalation of viruses along with the air when an infected person nearby coughs or sneezes.
  • Contact with contaminated surfaces, as viruses can live on them for long periods of time.
  • Direct contact with an infected person by shaking hands or kissing.


To prevent colds in autumn, follow these tips:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use antiseptic hand gel.
  • Avoid contact with infected persons.
  • Drink warm water regularly.
  • Avoid touching your face with dirty hands, especially your eyes, nose and mouth. Do not bite your nails.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a healthy diet and enough sleep.

How to boost immunity against colds

To reduce your risk of catching a cold in autumn, you need to boost your immune system. The immune system is the body's natural defence against disease, and its strength determines how well you are resistant to infections.

Here are some ways to boost your immunity against colds:

  • Eat healthy foods, lots of fruits and vegetables. They contain many vitamins and minerals that improve immune system function.
  • Take extra vitamins and supplements if your diet does not provide enough of the beneficial elements. Vitamin C and zinc can be particularly helpful.
  • Avoid stress as it can impair immune system function.
  • Maintain good sleep and rest hygiene. Insufficient sleep can weaken your immune system.
  • Do regular physical activity. It improves blood circulation and maintains your overall health.
  • Avoid hypothermia, dress warmly in cold weather, and try to keep your feet warm and dry.

Benefits of proper nutrition to prevent colds

Proper nutrition plays an important role in preventing colds. Certain foods have properties that can support your immunity and prevent colds.

Here are some foods that you should include in your diet to protect yourself from colds:

  • Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit and lemons, which are rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
  • Garlic and onions, which contain natural antibiotics that can fight harmful germs.
  • Yoghurt and kefir, which contain probiotics that improve the level of healthy microflora in the body.
  • Protein foods from plant and animal sources that contain amino acids that are essential for building immune cells.


Follow a diet that includes these foods and also follow other healthy habits such as a healthy lifestyle, physical activity and healthy sleep to maintain a strong immune system and protect yourself from upper respiratory colds in autumn.

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Elena Rasenko

Elena Rasenko writes about science, healthy living and psychology news, and shares her work-life balance tips and tricks.