Latest News (EN)

Thermal variations in autumn increase cases of respiratory diseases

Outono
Outono - Foto: Creative Travel Projects/Shutterstock.com

With the arrival of autumn, temperature variations throughout the day become more pronounced. Manhãs Cold weather, hotter afternoons and nights that cool quickly affect the respiratory system of many people. Drier air also reduces the natural protection of mucous membranes. Esses factors contribute to the increase in cases of asthma, bronchitis, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis and viral infections.

Saúde’s Ministério monitors the scenario through surveillance bulletins. Dados from 2025 already showed more than 120 thousand hospitalizations due to Síndrome Respiratória Aguda Grave in the year, with a peak between April and May. In 2026, the pattern repeats itself. Recent Relatórios indicate a gradual increase in SARS cases in several units of the federation.

Thermal Variação compromises airway defense

The human body has natural mechanisms to filter the air that enters the lungs. The nasal mucosa moistens and warms the inspired air. Quando the air becomes drier and the temperature fluctuates, this barrier loses efficiency. Vírus and irritating particles pass through more easily.

Pessoas exposed to these changes feel the effects more frequently. Tosse, runny nose and malaise appear. In some cases, the condition evolves into something more serious. Especialistas observe that autumn brings together ideal conditions for the simultaneous circulation of influenza A, respiratory syncytial virus and rhinovirus.

  • Dry Ar dries out the nasal mucous membranes
  • Oscilações of temperature stresses the airways
  • Ambientes closed spaces increase contact between people
  • Poeira and accumulated pollution irritate even more
  • Crianças in schools and elderly people at home are more vulnerable

National Dados show pressure on the healthcare system

Até At the beginning of May 2026, Brasil accumulates more than 46 thousand cases of SARS and around 2 thousand related deaths. Fiocruz and Saúde’s Ministério see increases in 16 states in recent weeks. Influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus lead among the identified agents.

In 2025, the peak of hospitalizations occurred exactly in the fall. The same movement is confirmed now. Regiões Sul and Sudeste concentrate a large part of the records, but the warning applies to the entire country. Hospitais reinforces pediatric shifts and teams.

The dry air typical of the season reduces relative humidity. Isso favors the persistence of viruses in the environment. Pessoas spend more time in closed spaces. The combination speeds up transmission at home, at work, in schools and on public transport.

Paisagem Outono, trees
Paisagem Outono, trees – Synthetic Messiah/shutterstock.com

Risk Grupos require special attention

Small Crianças face increased risk of bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus. Two-year-old Menores can quickly progress to respiratory failure if the condition is not monitored. Escolas and daycare centers increase daily contact with other viruses.

Idosos with comorbidities such as diabetes or hypertension see influenza becoming hospitalized more frequently. Adultos with asthma or chronic bronchitis suffer more intense attacks when they get any viral infection. Correct management at the beginning makes a difference in the outcome.

Sintomas initials look like the common cold. Tosse, low fever and runny nose fool a lot of people. Quando shortness of breath appears, wheezing persists or fever returns after improvement, the time to seek medical help has arrived. Emergency Sinais include bluish lips, difficulty speaking in complete sentences, and rapid breathing in children.

Prevenção combines vaccination and simple habits

Manter up-to-date influenza vaccination remains the main measure. Campanhas remains active in several regions until the end of May. Gestantes, children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses have priority. The updated vaccine reduces the risk of serious cases.

Ventilar environments even on colder days helps to circulate air. Higienizar hands frequently prevents contagion. Adequate Hidratação keeps the mucous membranes functioning better. Evitar crowding in closed spaces reduces exposure.

Para who already has a chronic respiratory disease, autumn asks for a check-up. Verificar stocks continuous-use medications and reviews an action plan for crises to avoid surprises. Antecipar care reduces chances of worsening.

Quando urgent care becomes necessary

Respiratory Dificuldade at rest requires immediate assessment. In children, nose flapping and use of accessory muscles indicate extra effort. Esses signals should not be ignored. The time between the onset of severe symptoms and medical support influences the prognosis.

Planos complementary health offers 24-hour teleguidance. Isso helps decide whether the case can be handled at home or needs face-to-face care. Pre-hospital Equipes with mobile structure stabilizes conditions before arrival at the hospital.

Autumn brings predictable challenges to the respiratory system. Monitorar symptoms, following prevention guidelines and seeking help at the right time limits impacts. Climate variations will continue in the coming weeks. Consistent Cuidados makes the difference in getting through the station without major complications.

To Top