RSV virus is ‘rampant’ in UK – Dr Hilary issues important tips to fight it this winter

Dr Hilary details rise in respiratory syncytial virus across UK

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RSV virus is surging thanks to prolonged social distancing measures weakening the UK public’s immune system, warned Doctor Hilary on Lorraine. RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. As Doctor Hilary explained, your immune system needs to be regularly exposed to foreign agents to prime its defences.

“Our immune system has been weakened,” warned the TV doctor.

Due to the potent combination of enforced social distancing measures being suddenly lifted and cold weather forcing people to huddle inside, RSV is rapidly spreading, he explained.

Fortunately, there are simple tips you can follow at home to alleviate the symptoms of RSV.

One Doctor Hilary swears by is gargling a quarter teaspoon of salt in 8oz of water.

“Honey is soothing,” noted the TV doctor.

He also recommends opting for a hot curry: “Hot curry can clear the airways out if you’re bunged up.”

Doctor Hilary also cites the research supporting the consumption of chicken soup to kick a nasty cold.

Several studies attest to the cold-busting benefits of chicken soup.

One of the most notable studies to come out was originally published in the journal CHEST in 2000.

University of Nebraska Medical Center physician and researcher Stephen Rennard, M.D., found that chicken soup may ease the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections.

The study’s focus was to find out if the movement of neutrophils – the most common white cell in the blood that defends the body against infection – would be blocked or reduced by chicken soup.

Researchers suspect the reduction in movement of neutrophils may reduce activity in the upper respiratory tract that can cause symptoms associated with a cold.

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