By Winnie Osika
The global pandemic, COVID-19 has presented new social and behavioral changes that many would perceive as a blessing in disguise.Folks are becoming more cautious with their diet, general hygiene and regular body exercise.
As early as 5:am in the morning, you are likely to spot a few Kenyans on the road having their morning jog or run. This has become a common and regular practice amongst many people.
In retrospect, Kenya could be among one of the healthiest countries worldwide if these practices are embraced in longevity. It is a win for our immune system.
Medical experts have it that your immune system is key to good health, so the more you can do to protect it, the better health for you. There are several ways in which an individual can boost their immune system, the three key ones are maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly and observing hygiene.
Most importantly, having a healthy diet is a key component of a healthy lifestyle and plays a vital role in supporting a well-functioning and effective immune system to help protect against infection and other diseases.
In this COVID-19 period, researchers have emphasized on the need and importance of good immunity and the role it has played in the fight against this virus. Much as there is no known medicine for the COVID-19 disease, Kenya’s Ministry of Health estimates the recovery rate stands at 85 per cent.
Dr. Loice Achieng, a senior lecturer in the Department of Clinical Medicine and Therapeutics at the University of Nairobi as quoted in a local daily connects the recovery from the disease to one’s immune system and adds that the recovery rate depends on how best your immune system can fight the disease.
“Your own immunity begins to fight the infection so that with time you develop antibodies. You also have cells that attack the virus and with time your body gets rid of the virus,” says Dr. Achieng.
People with a weak immune system have a higher risk of experiencing frequent infections and severe symptoms which may be harder to treat.
Medical experts also say that these individuals may also find themselves dealing with an infection that a person with a stronger immune system would not get.
There are several methods through which one can boost their immune system, but before self medicating, it is important to go for a proper medical check up and get advice from your doctor directly.
However, the general advice recommended are eating a healthy diet, if possible, seek the guidance of a professional nutritionist, manage your stress level, get enough sleep and exercise regularly.
