Coronavirus: Prevention is better than cure, says Ballito doctor

A compromised immune system has been shown to give the Coronavirus the opening it needs to do the most damage possible and, the latest available data shows that people need to be taking a more pro-active approach in how they deal with daily healthy lifestyle choices.

Information from the Centre for Disease Control has suggested that people most likely to develop severe forms of the virus are men, especially those with pre-existing illnesses.

The research has so far shown that people with compromised, or weaker, immune systems are more heavily affected than those with strong immune systems.

But how can you make a positive change in your lifestyle, boosting your immune system, before possibly falling ill with the virus or any other?

With more than ten years’ worth of experience in the medical field as a general practitioner, Ballito’s Dr Harisha Karpath explained that prevention is always better than cure.

“Our immune system is an integral part of our bodies’ defense in fighting infectious diseases like the Coronavirus. It is comprised of cells and chemicals working together to destroy the causative virus. Over time, with exposure to different viruses or bacteria, our immune system changes and develops antibodies, making it stronger and so we are able to fight off these infections quicker,” he said.

Dr Karpath added that a strong immune system will allow the body to recognise the virus swiftly, contain the infection and kill it with minimal to no complications reducing the long-term damage to the body.

People who have compromised immune systems are urged to avoid people showing flu-like symptoms.

“People living with HIV, who have a good immune system, are at lower risk of the complications from Coronavirus. However, these patients should present to their healthcare provider at the first signs of an infection for appropriate treatment.”

Speaking with regard to supplements and vitamins, it was explained that research has proven that supplements like zinc, vitamins B and C and antioxidants all aid in boosting the immune system.

It’s not all about vitamins though and Dr Karpath advised that having a healthy diet and lifestyle further improves immune system health, especially foods rich in nutrients.

Reducing the intake of saturated fats and refined sugars are beneficial.

Smoking and alcohol binges places a strain on the immune system, reducing its ability to respond efficiently to infections.

Regular exercise also boosts our immune system.

“Lastly, it was said that good hygiene remains a priority and reduces the risk of infection. Washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds is recommended. So, the message is a strong immune system is your best defence in the fight against viruses like Coronavirus.”

Worldwide statistics to date are:

– Nearly 115 000 cases of Coronavirus have been reported.

– More than 4 000 people have died.

– Nearly 5 800 cases are serious or critical.

– Just over 40 500 are mild cases.

– More than 64 000 people have recovered or been discharged.

– Symptoms include coughing, fever, headaches, difficulty breathing and sore throat.

Meanwhile, the WHO has indicated that symptoms can last anything from three to six weeks in severe or critical cases while mild cases will last about two weeks.

* Notice: Coronavirus reporting at Caxton Local Media aims to combat fake news Dear reader, As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19.

Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).

Download The North Coast Courier mobile app, now available free from the Apple iStore and on Google Play, for IOS and Android phones.