The history of humanity is a chronicle of encounters with viruses, and the battle against viruses has been a prolonged one. Scientific advancements have progressed from being enslaved by viruses to actively combating them. In the face of the coronavirus, raising immunity emerges as a crucial factor.
 

01 Immunity: The Ultimate Competitive Edge

On January 29, the international medical journal "The Lancet" published a retrospective study titled "Epidemiological Characteristics and Clinical Manifestations of 99 cases of 2019 Novel Coronavirus in Wuhan, China: A Descriptive Study." Analyzing 99 cases of novel coronavirus infection, the study drew several important conclusions:

• Increased Susceptibility in Males: Men appear to be more susceptible to the novel coronavirus compared to women. The slightly lower susceptibility in females may be attributed to the protective role of the X chromosome and sex hormones, both of which play vital roles in innate and adaptive immunity.

• Greater Impact on Older Males with Comorbidities: The novel coronavirus infection appears to cluster in outbreaks and has a greater impact on older males with preexisting health conditions.

• Role of Immune Status: In addition to the pathogenic factors of the virus, the immune status of patients is a crucial factor. Advanced age, obesity, and comorbidities may contribute to an increased risk of mortality.

Before the current pandemic, many were focused solely on financial gains, sacrificing health for wealth. There are only two things that make people disregard money: health and freedom. Now, with both challenges simultaneously present, it is clear that immunity is the greatest competitive edge.
 

02 Known Transmission Routes and Prevention Strategies

The sudden outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia prompts questions about its origin, transmission, mortality rate, and preventive measures. The main transmission routes identified through expert analysis and research include:

• Direct Transmission: Inhaling respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks can lead to infection.

• Aerosol Transmission: Mixing of respiratory droplets in the air to form aerosols that can be inhaled, resulting in infection.

• Contact Transmission: Contacting surfaces contaminated with respiratory droplets and then touching mucous membranes (mouth, nose, eyes) can cause infection.

• Fecal-Oral Transmission: Viruses in feces contaminating the environment and entering the body through the digestive system can lead to infection.

Based on recommendations from organizations like the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the following five measures are crucial for everyone:

• Frequent Handwashing: Washing hands with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizers with 70-80% alcohol.

• Proper Mask Usage: Minimizing visits to crowded places, especially if there are individuals with flu symptoms, and wearing masks properly to reduce infection risk.

• Avoiding Contact with Wildlife: Minimizing contact with wild animals and refraining from hunting, selling, or purchasing wild game.

• Maintaining Personal Hygiene: Using tissues or bending elbows to cover the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, proper disposal of used tissues, and thorough handwashing.

• Handling Purchases from Public Places: Disinfecting and cleaning external packaging of items purchased outside and practicing hand hygiene after handling.

In the face of the pandemic, outdoor activities are discouraged, and public fitness facilities should be avoided. Utilizing home fitness equipment or engaging in indoor activities can be both enjoyable and beneficial for strengthening the body and enhancing immunity.
 

03 Balancing Immunity for Optimal Health

Health equals fewer illnesses, and a strong immune system is key to achieving this equation. However, the immune system requires balance for optimal functioning.

The consequences of a weakened immune system include increased susceptibility to infections, affecting various bodily systems, potentially leading to endocrine and nervous system disruptions, resulting in hormonal imbalances and insomnia.

On the other hand, an excessively strong immune response can lead to the development of autoimmune diseases or allergic conditions. Interestingly, the immune system differs between genders due to hormonal influences, with women having a less stable immune system than men, making them more prone to certain autoimmune diseases.

Signs of a compromised immune system include poor mental well-being, fatigue, and discomfort. Regular checkups of white blood cell counts are recommended. An increased frequency of colds, slow wound healing, and other indicators suggest a rapid decline in immune function.

In the natural course of evolution, survival has favored those who can adapt to environmental changes rather than those who are the strongest or most intelligent. The immune response should neither be too weak nor too strong; a balanced immune system is the most effective.

When facing a virus, people's reactions should mirror the immune system itself—not indifferent or excessively panicked. A calm approach over time will lead to the eradication of the pandemic.
 

04 The Immune System: Your Body's Inherent Super Doctor

In the midst of a viral outbreak, rapidly boosting immunity may not be feasible. There are no foods or supplements that can instantly enhance immunity. So, what can ordinary individuals do? Focus on enhancing protection, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining a calm mindset.

During the novel coronavirus period, healthcare professionals recommend that patients strengthen their nutrition and ensure sufficient sleep during isolation. Whether ill or not, reasonable dietary practices and enhanced nutrition can significantly improve an individual's ability to resist diseases.

In the struggle against infectious diseases, humanity has mastered an ancient and remarkably effective method—isolation. While isolating potentially infected individuals is necessary, it can also induce panic.

Negative emotions, such as anxiety, sadness, and worry, can lead to an increase in the stress hormone cortisol, thereby suppressing the immune system's function.

Whether for health or happiness, maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Faced with a pandemic, approaching it with a calm, positive attitude will protect the immune system.

In conclusion—

Despite the robustness of the immune system, factors such as aging, unhealthy lifestyles, and especially mental stress can lead to a gradual decrease in the number and proliferative capacity of immune cells. From the age of 20 to 60, the body's immunity decreases by about 60%, and its ability to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells weakens.

Therefore, before cellular mutations accumulate, besides maintaining good mood and sleep, what else can we do?

• Supplement Immune Cell Count: External supplementation of immune cells to increase their numbers.

• Enhance Immune Cell Activity: Cultivating immune cells with stronger activity and proliferative capacity in vitro and reintroducing them into the body.

The world's best doctor is none other than the human body's immune system.

As viruses rage, practice vigilant protection, and may everyone be well. After the harsh winter, the warmth of spring is sure to follow!