Not every cough is a virus, Kuwait doctors urge autumn weather health precautions
. . . experts recommend vaccination and caution for vulnerable groups; warn against antibiotic misuse as respiratory illnesses rise seasonally
- Doctors have urged the public to take preventive measures as Kuwait transitions from summer to autumn, warning that changing temperatures, humidity and dust can aggravate allergies and asthma, while increased gatherings and the return to schools may facilitate the spread of respiratory infections.
Preventive health physician Dr. Abdullah Behbehani said seasonal weather fluctuations could irritate the respiratory system and worsen symptoms among children, older adults and people with chronic respiratory conditions. He advised patients to follow prescribed treatments, monitor their health and seek medical attention if symptoms become unusual or worsen.
Recommended precautions include avoiding direct exposure to dust, ensuring proper indoor ventilation, washing hands regularly, limiting contact with people who have respiratory illnesses and taking recommended vaccinations, particularly seasonal influenza and pneumonia vaccines for eligible groups. Dr Behbehani also warned against taking antibiotics or other medicines without medical advice, urging prompt evaluation in cases of breathing difficulties, persistent high fever or deteriorating health.
Internal medicine consultant Dr. Ghanem Al-Salem said seasonal changes were often accompanied by more cases of colds, influenza, nasal and sinus allergies, asthma symptoms and some intestinal infections. Temperature fluctuations, dust, humidity changes and increased contact in enclosed spaces could contribute to these health problems.
Al-Salem stressed that cold weather itself does not cause influenza, which requires transmission of the virus. Poor ventilation and crowded indoor environments can, however, facilitate the spread of respiratory infections, including the common cold, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19.
He emphasised the importance of distinguishing between non-communicable conditions, such as allergies and asthma, and viral infections that can spread between people. Symptoms alone may not reliably identify the virus, and medical assessment or testing may be necessary.
Older adults, young children, pregnant women, people with diabetes or heart, lung and kidney diseases, and those with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of complications. Dr Al-Salem advised vulnerable patients to seek medical advice early when flu symptoms appear, noting that antiviral treatment is generally most effective when started within the first 48 hours, although later treatment may be considered in some severe cases.
Consultant in internal and infectious diseases Dr. Ghanem Al-Hujailan said respiratory infections could spread more readily during autumn as students returned to schools and people resumed close contact in crowded settings. Returning travellers may also introduce respiratory viruses that subsequently spread within the community.
Dr Al-Hujailan urged the public to follow health guidelines and stressed the importance of seasonal influenza vaccination, particularly for vulnerable groups and people who regularly interact with older adults or patients with chronic illnesses.
Dr Behbehani said attendance at health centres and preventive health centres remained within normal levels, with no unusual increase in visits linked to seasonal changes. He encouraged the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, adequate sleep and regular physical activity, while seeking medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
