Cold, allergy season upon us

STAFF WRITER

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With flu season on its way out, cold and allergy season is on its way in as spring comes to full bloom in eastern New Mexico.

Roosevelt General Hospital Clinical Care Manager Kim Burrow said flu season reaches its downslope in April and is phased out in May.

Burrow said the increase in moisture in Roosevelt County has caused more plants to grow this spring, which has resulted in more allergens in the air.

To combat allergies, Burrow recommends finding over-the-counter allergy medications that address specific symptoms allergy sufferers are experiencing. If allergies become severe, Burrows said individuals should seek advice from allergy specialists.

Burrows said running a humidifier can reduce allergies at home, and treating allergy symptoms can prevent sinus infections and bronchitis.

La Casa Family Health Center Clinical Director Giddel Thom said if possible, avoid being outdoors on windy days to prevent allergies from flaring up.

That’s beacause allergens aren’t the only things blowing around in the high plains winds.

Thom said colds can be spread a number of ways, including through the air blown by the wind.

Washing hands and surfaces frequently can reduce the risk of contracting a cold, according to Thom.

Thom also recommends boosting the immune system by exercising, hydrating, and resting. Thom said exercise helps to boost the immune system by releasing chemicals in the body that help with the body’s defenses.

According to Thom, coughing and sneezing into the elbow helps reduce the possibility of spreading germs that can cause colds.

Thom said using sick time should be something everyone takes seriously when they are feeling like they have cold symptoms.

“If you’re sick,” Thom said, “avoid contact with other people.”