Concerns have escalated this season about the spread of colds and influenza, amid increasing cases in several areas, prompting experts to highlight effective ways to alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.
Dr. Brandon Lou, a Canadian internal medicine physician, pointed to the results of a small study recently published on site X, which examined the effect of nasal washing with saline solution on adults suffering from colds.
The study showed that removing viruses from the sinuses substantially contributes to reducing the duration of the illness and alleviating symptoms, compared to traditional treatments like rest and over-the-counter medications.
In the study, participants were divided into two groups:
The first group received traditional cold treatments, including pain relievers, fever reducers, and cough medicines.
The second group added regular nasal washing with saline solution to remove mucus and relieve congestion.
The results showed that the group that relied on nasal washing recovered on average two days faster (i.e., 22% faster) compared to the traditional group.
Additionally, the use of non-prescription drugs decreased by 36%, and the transmission of the virus to family members by 35%.
Dr. Lou explained the scientific mechanism, saying: “Washing the viruses from the nose and throat helps the immune system work more efficiently, as the chloride ions in the saline water enhance the production of hypochlorous acid, a natural antimicrobial compound that helps the body fight infections.”
Additional scientifically supported preventive measures
Other studies suggest that adhering to a series of simple measures reduces the risk of contracting or spreading viruses:
Good room ventilation and reducing prolonged presence in crowded indoor spaces.
Frequent hand washing for at least 20 seconds with water and soap, or using an alcoholic sanitizer.
A balanced diet focusing on fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C and zinc, to boost immunity.
Maintaining moisture inside the nose using saline solution or humidifiers, to reduce inflammation and irritation of the mucous membranes.
In a study published by Clinical Infectious Diseases in 2024, it showed that people who regularly washed their noses with saline solution during the cold and influenza season experienced 25% less severe symptoms and a 20% reduction in illness duration, along with a significant decrease in household transmission cases.
Scientific background
Research indicates that colds and influenza are caused by different viruses, mainly rhinoviruses and influenza A and B viruses, and target the upper respiratory system. The nasal glands and mucous membranes are the first lines of natural defense, containing antibodies and enzymes that combat viruses.
Nasal washing with saline solution not only removes mucus but also activates the local immune response and reduces the accumulation of viruses, which explains the improvement in symptoms and faster recovery.
Practical tips
✅ Use a sterile saline solution to perform nasal washing twice daily at the onset of symptoms.
✅ Drink plenty of fluids to maintain moisture in the mucous membranes.
✅ Avoid sharing towels and cups to reduce the transmission of infection.
✅ Get enough sleep to support the immune system.
✅ Consult a doctor immediately if fever rises or symptoms worsen.
World Health issues an international alert over the MERS-CoV virus after an increase in cases
The World Health Organization issued a stern warning about the coronavirus responsible for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV), following a significant increase in the number of cases, representing the first major global alarm since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The French authorities reported the first two infections with the virus since more than a decade, traced to travelers who visited the Arabian Peninsula at the beginning of December 2025, making the total confirmed cases in France four, including one death.
As of December 21, 2025, the World Health Organization recorded 19 cases of the virus, including 17 in Saudi Arabia and two in France, with four deaths.
The genetic sequencing confirmed that the strains discovered in France match those prevalent in the Arabian Peninsula.
MERS-CoV is characterized by a high mortality rate, approximately 37%, although its ability to transmit between humans is relatively limited. Symptoms of infection include fever, cough, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and vomiting, and the virus can be lethal in severe cases, with no vaccine currently available.
In response to the French cases, authorities have initiated contact tracing of those infected, and no secondary infections have been recorded as of December 19, while the European Centers for Disease Control consider the risk of widespread transmission very low.
The World Health Organization emphasized the need to enhance surveillance and immediate notification of all cases, and to take strict preventive measures in healthcare settings.
The organization also advised avoiding raw camel products and maintaining a safe distance from animals, particularly for people with chronic medical conditions, as camels are a primary source of the virus.
