嗓子疼是感冒警报？做对这些事阻断病毒

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the onset of cold symptoms, particularly sore throat, as a signal of the immune system's response to viral infection rather than the beginning of the illness itself [6]. Group 1: Understanding Sore Throat and Immune Response - Sore throat is often the first symptom of a cold, indicating that the immune system is attacking the virus [6]. - When viruses invade throat cells, they trigger a response from the immune system, which sends immune cells to the site of infection and releases inflammatory mediators that cause pain [3][6]. - The immune response can lead to additional symptoms such as nasal congestion and fever, especially in young children whose immune systems are still developing [3][6]. Group 2: Prevention of Colds - Common remedies like vitamin C and various juices do not effectively prevent or shorten the duration of colds; they primarily provide symptomatic relief [7]. - Effective prevention methods include: 1. Frequent hand washing to eliminate viruses from hands [8]. 2. Wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces to block virus transmission [9]. 3. Ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces to dilute airborne viruses [10]. 4. Vaccination against specific pathogens that cause respiratory symptoms, such as the flu vaccine [11]. Group 3: Relief Measures for Sore Throat - While immediate relief from sore throat is not possible, several methods can provide comfort: - Drinking warm or cold beverages, such as tea with honey or lemon [12]. - Consuming cold desserts like ice cream [13]. - Sucking on hard candies for older children [14]. - Gargling with warm salt water for children aged six and above [15].