Aug 13: For generations people in India have been observing the seasonal patterns to anticipate the types of infections that tend to occur. Winter usually brought colds and coughs, summer meant rashes and allergies, and the monsoon often came with viral fevers.

But today, those familiar patterns are changing. Seasons have become unpredictable with higher temperatures, sudden rain, shorter or fluctuating winters, and unexpected weather swings. Just last year, many cities even saw heavy showers well into November, These changes can also shift when and how often viral infections appear, especially respiratory ones. No wonder so many of us now find ourselves confused and asking:

Is this cold? Is it an allergy? Or could it be the flu?

Sudden seasonal changes make it easier for viruses to survive and spread in ways we’re not used to. At the same time, the air quality in many cities keeps getting worse, which puts extra pressure on our lungs. When these two factors come together, unpredictable weather and pollution - they can weaken our respiratory health and make us more prone to infections.

According to Dr. Vishnun Rao Veerapaneni, Senior Consultant Pulmonologist, Swasa Hospital, Hyderabad, 

“Many people experience symptoms like sneezing, coughing, fever, tiredness, a blocked or runny nose, and a sore throat — often more than one at the same time. Because these symptoms overlap, it can be tricky to tell whether it’s a cold, an allergy, or the flu. But it’s important to know the difference, especially because influenza  can become serious if not treated in time.”

Dr Das further explained,

 “The flu is not the same as the common cold. While both cold and flu can hit suddenly, flu has more severe symptoms than the cold. It often starts with a high fever, severe body aches, headaches, extreme fatigue, and a dry cough. One of the best ways to protect yourself from the flu is by getting the annual influenza vaccine, which helps reduce the risk of severe illness and keeps you protected through the year.”

A strong immune system is your body’s natural defense against infections, and the best way to build it is by following healthy habits consistently. Good nutrition plays a big role in keeping your immune system strong and ready to fight infections like the flu. Eating enough protein and including fiber‑rich foods can help support a healthy gut, an important part of overall immunity.

Nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D also act as key defenders for your body, so focusing on these can give your immunity a natural boost.

Flu affects over a billion people globally each year and 3 to 5 million of those cases become severe. The good news is that a single yearly flu shot can greatly lower the chances of serious complications like pneumonia — especially for people who are more vulnerable, such as older adults and those with long‑term health conditions. Even if vaccinated individuals do catch the flu, their symptoms are usually much milder, and they tend to recover faster than those who aren’t vaccinated.

“As climate change alters disease patterns, prevention becomes more important than ever,” says Dr. Jejoe Karankumar, Medical Affairs Director, Abbott India. “Influenza vaccination is a proven and effective tool to help individuals stay protected against severe flu‑related illnesses. In India, where seasonal changes are becoming more unpredictable, getting vaccinated at the right time can play a key role in protecting public health.”

Flu vaccination offers protection that is especially relevant for people who are at higher risk. For example, it helps reduce the chances of hospitalization for people with diabetes who may face more complications from the flu. It can also significantly lower flu‑related respiratory infections in pregnant women, helping protect both the mother and the baby. Older adults and people with weakened immune systems, who are typically more vulnerable to infections, can also benefit from getting vaccinated, as it can give their body extra support to fight the virus.

While maintaining a strong immune system and practicing good hygiene are essential for staying healthy, an annual flu vaccination can support with broader protection. This is particularly important because the influenza virus evolves rapidly, which is why the flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most prevalent circulating strains. This update is guided by the World Health Organization. When you’re in public places, small habits can make a big difference. Remember to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, it helps protect the people around you.

Regular handwashing and maintaining a bit of distance when you’re unwell are simple yet responsible practices that help prevent the spread of infections. By adopting these habits consistently, we protect not only our own health but also the well‑being of our communities.