As cold and flu season approaches, when acute respiratory viral infections (ARVIs) are becoming one of the most common causes of diseases, Örken East Kazakhstan Regional Scientific and Methodological Center for Informatization and Education Development of Education Administration of East Kazakhstan region held an important lesson in an interview format.

The topic of the meeting was “How to keep schoolchildren healthy from colds and the flu.” Armangul M. Jembayeva, an expert of Shygys Preventive Medicine Center was invited as a speaker-expert.

ARVI vs Influenza: What is the difference?

At the beginning of the lesson, the expert clarified the key concepts. Acute respiratory viral infections are a group of viral infections that typically have milder symptoms and can be treated effectively if addressed early. The main symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections include cough, runny nose, sore throat and fever.

The flu, in turn, is a more severe viral illness. If acute respiratory viral infections are left untreated and preventative measures are ignored, it can lead to complications like the flu, which requires a more intensive treatment. Viruses are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets.  

Three principles for student protection

According to the expert, to keep schoolchildren healthy from acute respiratory viral infections and influenza relies on three principles. Following these rules can reduce the risk of illness by 80%.

1. Hand hygiene

Personal hygiene is the cornerstone of prevention. It is essential to wash hands frequently and properly, or to use hand sanitizers when soap and water are unavailable.

2. Proper respiratory rules

It is necessary to learn how to sneeze and cough correctly. This means covering your mouth and nose with your elbow, use a handkerchief, or a disposable napkin.

3. Immune System Support

Strengthening the immune system involves a balanced daily routine, work and rest, and a healthy sleep. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nuts serves as “real shields against illness.” 

Hidden threats and proper mask usage

The most pressing issues of disease prevention were discussed during the interview:

Is a mobile phone more dangerous than a door handle?

The expert confirmed that a mobile phone can indeed be more dangerous than a door handle. This is due to the fact that we use it more often and hold them near our faces, close to the respiratory tract - providing an easy route for viruses and bacteria to enter the body. It is recommended to wipe your gadgets regularly with disposable antiseptic wipes.

How to wear a mask correctly?

It was noted that masks are an essential personal protective measure.

• A mask should fit well to the face and have no gaps.
• It should cover the entire respiratory tract.
• It is necessary to change the mask every 2-3 hours.
• It is important to know how to remove and dispose of the mask correctly - without touching it.

The key advice for students and parents

In conclusion, Armangul M. Jembayeva stressed the importance of sleep patterns for schoolchildren.

• Students should sleep 8-9 hours.
• Quality sleep is not a luxury, but a necessity, as the body restores during sleep.
• Healthy sleep improves both the immune system and cognitive function.

For parents, the key recommendation is to establish a consistent sleep and rest regime, as well as strengthen the child’s immune system by walking and taking vitamins if there is a deficiency.

Ultimately, “health is not everything, but everything is nothing without health,” and protection from viruses is not just a personal responsibility, but a common task and we must address it together.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/vko-bilim/press/news/details/1082877?lang=kk