Autumn cold prevention in Finland has become essential as the cold season officially starts. Viruses are spreading more actively as temperatures drop, and while influenza usually peaks later in the year, common cold cases are already on the rise across the country.
“Tens of different viruses are circulating all the time,” said Dr Emilia Lagus, a general practitioner at Terveystalo. “Healthy adults get several colds per year, and for children under three, it’s normal to be sick up to eight times a year.”
Colds are caused by hundreds of viruses, and infection risk increases when the body encounters a virus it has not met recently. Complete avoidance is unrealistic, but simple steps can reduce the chances of getting sick. Dr Lagus stressed that vitamin supplements alone do not prevent infections.
“There is no convincing evidence that supplements protect against infection if there is no deficiency,” she explained. “Vitamin C and zinc may help slightly, and zinc might shorten the duration of a cold a bit. But they will not stop the virus from spreading.”
Instead, Dr Lagus recommends seven practical strategies for autumn cold prevention in Finland.
Maintain Basic Physical Health
Supporting the immune system starts with sleep, physical activity, and a varied diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and berries. “The plate model is a good guide,” Dr Lagus said. “Vitamin D is the only supplement I recommend year-round in Finland.”
Manage Long-Term Stress
“Short-term stress can briefly boost immunity, but chronic stress weakens it. Long-term stress alters how the immune system works and makes you more vulnerable to infections.”
Avoid Smoking
Smoking weakens the body’s defences and irritates the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract, making them more prone to infection, Dr Lagus explained.
Wash Hands Frequently
Handwashing remains the most effective way to prevent viral transmission. “Viruses often spread through contact. Wash your hands after returning home, before eating, after using the toilet, and after sneezing or blowing your nose.”
Change Hand Towels More Often
During virus season, families should avoid sharing towels. “Each family member should have their own hand towel. It is a small but effective way to reduce spread within households.”
Spend Time Outdoors
Exposure to nature supports immunity. “We do not know exactly why, but being outside, interacting socially, physical activity, and vitamin D from sunlight all may play a role.”
Learn Proper Cough and Sneeze Hygiene
Reducing virus spread also depends on how you cough and sneeze. “Sneeze into a disposable tissue, throw it away, and wash your hands. If no tissue is available, sneeze into your shirt collar, not your sleeve.”
Dr Lagus emphasizes that these habits form the best line of defence. While nothing is foolproof, combining these strategies lowers the risk of illness and protects others too.
