Have you or your loved ones gotten sick more often since the Covid pandemic? You are not alone. According to a study by Bloomberg and London-based disease forecasting firm Airfinity Ltd., at least 13 communicable diseases — from the common cold to measles and tuberculosis — are exceeding pre-pandemic levels in areas across the world. people. The survey also found that 44 countries and territories have reported a resurgence in one or more infectious diseases that are at least 10 times worse than the original pre-Covid price.
In recent years, we have seen different seasons characterized by “tripodemics” of Covid, RSV and influenza rising together. Whooping cough cases have increased 45 times in China in the first four months of 2024 compared to last year. The “carnivore” disease that can kill people within 48 hours is spreading in Japan. Cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) have reached 977 this year through June 2, a nearly 200 percent increase over the number of infections reported during the same period last year, according to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases. At the current rate of infections, it is predicted that the number of cases in Japan could reach 2,500 this year, with an alarming 30% fatality rate. STSS is caused by group A streptococcus (GAS), the same bacteria that causes strep in children. As of 2022, health services around the world recorded an increase in severe invasive Streptococcus A infections after pandemic restrictions were lifted. Measles, which was declared eradicated in the US in 2000, is spreading in the US, UK and parts of Europe.
Is there anything we can do?
- Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases. Information about vaccinations can help protect infants, children and vulnerable groups from potentially life-threatening diseases. But for some viruses (such as Covid-19 and influenza), often, the immunity gained through vaccination is not permanent. This is known as the attenuation effect, hence the need for vaccine boosters.
- The immune system plays a key role in the susceptibility, persistence and clearance of infections. If you or your child get sick again and again, it’s time to support and restore proper immune function. With at least 70% of immune cells present in the gut, a healthy gut microbiome (ie with a wide range of different beneficial bacteria) is vital to a healthy immune system and plays an important role in regulating immune function. In addition to consuming probiotics (via food and/or supplements), it is important to eat nutritious foods to boost immunity and ensure adequate fiber/prebiotic intake so that beneficial gut bacteria can grow and thrive. Click here to learn more tips for rebuilding your immunity, naturally.
- To prevent transmission, practice “respiratory etiquette”: Sneeze or cough into the crook of your elbow, not into the air or into your hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your face. The eyes, nose and mouth are gateways for viruses and bacteria. “Scratching your nose, rubbing your eyes, resting your chin and your fingers going next to your mouth — there are many ways to do it,” said Dr. Nancy C. Elder, professor of family medicine at the University of Health and of Oregon Science in Portland. “Everyone touches their face and it’s a habit that’s hard to break.”
Your mental/emotional health, amount of sleep, exercise level, ability to regulate inflammation, smoking/vaping/drinking habits, etc. they also affect how well your body fights infections. If you’re concerned about recurring infections or want to learn more ways to support your immune system, find a health care professional who is up-to-date on the latest research and trained to help your body function optimally.
