With the outbreak of COVID-19 becoming a serious concern across the world, many people are left wondering how they can protect themselves against this deadly disease. Scientists have urged those with health conditions or weakened immune systems to isolate for months to prevent catching the disease. So, is there any evidence to suggest that a strong immune system could protect you against contracting coronavirus?
Our immune system is constantly working hard to protect our body against all types of illnesses that we don’t even know about; however at this stage, it is difficult to determine whether we can develop immunity to this newfound disease.
Here is What We Know So Far:
While the headlines of daily deaths can be alarming, the positive news is that 80% of the population who contract the disease will only experience mild symptoms, or may even have no symptoms at all. These people typically have strong immune systems with no pre-existing health conditions, as their bodies can put up a fight against the disease.
The way the virus works is it enters the body through the eyes, nose or mouth and makes it way down into the lungs, before attacking the goblet cells which keep the airways functioning to capacity. At this stage, the body loses its defense and the lungs fill with fluid, making it harder to breathe.
If your immune system is strong enough, it will put up a fight against these germs, so you’ll experience mild symptoms such as a high temperature, headache or a cough. If your immune system is on the weaker side, however, it’s likely you’ll experience additional symptoms such as bacterial infections. In worst-case scenarios, it can lead to organ failure.
Does a Strong Immune System Mean You Won’t Catch COVID-19?
From the research that has been conducted so far, a strong immune system may protect you from the most extreme symptoms of the virus, but it is unlikely to defend you against it altogether.
Those in good health will be able to fight off the disease to an extent before the body shuts itself down. However, it’s important to be aware that there is no miracle remedy that will enhance your immune system overnight, so it would be a good idea to put some strategies in place as soon as possible. Here are some examples:
Get Some Sunshine
Sitting out in the sunshine is great for boosting both your mood and general health and gives you a better chance of fighting off illnesses. Research has proven that the body works harder to fight against disease when exposed to vitamin D, which is emitted from the sun’s rays.
Cold Showers
While it’s not the most pleasant experience, scientific evidence proves that taking regular cold showers could boost our immunity. It increases the number of white blood cells in the body, reduces stress levels and quickens the rate of metabolism — all of which promote a positive immune reaction.
Massages
Massaging is an age-old remedy that’s scientifically linked to an enhanced immune system. A study carried out by Professor Fulvio D’Acquisto of the University of Roehampton discovered that after a massage, the body experienced an increase of 70% more white blood cells which work hard to combat even the deadliest of diseases.