Seasonal diseases are very common in our country. We are in the midst of the winter season. Humans are sensitive to cold and can develop varieties of illnesses during this season. In many parts of the country, it is not unusual for homeless people to die from hypothermia in the winter. Every year during winter many people lose their life due to freezing temperature and its consequences. Flu, common cold, respiratory diseases, streptococcal pharyngitis, sinusitis and bronchitis etc are the most common winter diseases.

One of the most common diseases associated with winter is influenza. Symptoms include: headache, fever, muscle pains, sinus infection, fatigue, dizziness, cough and loss of appetite. Common cold, a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, is the most prevalent illness leading to frequent doctor visits. People are most likely to have common cold during the winter because of the fact that people are indoors and close to each other during this season. Viral flu is a very common illness of childhood characterized by runny nose and sneezing, and pains accompany the sore throat. These are highly contagious and cause epidemics in the winter. Almost all cases of influenza are easily preventable by vaccinations.

Pneumonia is also a major problem among children below 2 years. Exposure to respiratory viruses causes different types of respiratory diseases during winter.

Complication of this infection may lead to respiratory problems ultimately killing the patient. Pharyngitis is sore throat; an inflammation and swelling of the throat. It is a common side effect of the winter. It is most common in school age children.

People who are living in temporary shelters and earthquake affected areas are at more risk of winter illnesses because of lack of proper things to deal with the winter. Winter diseases in childhood are most prevalent. Good hand washing and immunization can prevent some illnesses in winter.

Majority of winter illnesses occur due to a weak immunity so the immune system should be kept healthy by eating good and healthy foods, taking plenty of rest and fluids. It is important to prepare the body well in advance for a change in the season. Methods to keep body warm should be followed by wearing warm clothes as well as heating devices. Plenty of nutrition and vitamins can take care of health as well as dry skin in winter.