Every year, pollution kills around 2 million people in India alone, according to a study published in the peer-reviewed journal BMJ. Now with several parts of northern India and neighbouring Pakistan reporting record-breaking Air Quality Index (AQI), the focus has shifted to prevention. Health experts across the border have advised people to stay indoors, use air purifiers and wear anti-pollution masks. While the N95 is most commonly available, there are other anti-pollution masks as well.

Why Do We Need Anti-Pollution Masks?

We need anti-pollution masks to safeguard ourselves from harmful pollutants, particularly PM2.5 particulate matter, which is shown to directly enter the bloodstream and cause various diseases. Different types of masks protect the body, including surgical or cloth masks, N95 masks, N99 masks, N100 masks, P95 masks, and R95 masks.

According to experts, one should always look for a mask with an intact seal and an expiratory valve to breathe out carbon dioxide, especially if one is exerting. They also underscore that wearing a reusable mask with re-insertable filters is better than wearing a disposable mask. It is pertinent to note that masks used for patients with asthma, bronchitis, COPD and other breathing issues must have a silicon lining for extra comfort.

What Is An N95 Mask?

Other Types Of Face Masks

Like N95 masks, they are not effective against oil-based pollutants​.

P95 and R95 Masks: P95 masks are resistant to oil-based particles, making them ideal for environments with both non-oil and oil-based pollutants, such as industrial settings.

R95 masks also offer oil resistance but are designed for shorter-term use. These are often less common for daily wear and are typically used in specific occupational settings​.

Surgical and Cloth Masks: These offer basic protection but are generally ineffective for fine particulate matter like PM2.5. They do not fit tightly, so pollutants can enter through gaps, reducing their effectiveness against air pollution.

Cloth masks can be useful for dust and larger particles but are not recommended for highly polluted areas​.

Activated Carbon Masks: High-end masks sometimes incorporate activated carbon filters, which help to absorb gases, odours, and certain toxins in the air.

A particular type of cough could offer an important clue about whether you have Covid or flu this winter. The NHS has outlined how the two illnesses can be told apart.

Why Do Respiratory Illnesses Rise In Winter?

As winter arrives, a noticeable increase in seasonal illnesses is expected. Conditions such as the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, and influenza tend to spread more easily during colder months. This happens because viruses thrive in lower temperatures and people spend longer periods indoors, often in close proximity to others.

Why Covid and Flu Can Be Hard To Tell Apart

Distinguishing between these infections is not always easy, as many symptoms overlap. According to guidance published by the NHS, the following symptoms are commonly seen in both Covid and flu:

• A high temperature
• A sore throat
• Feeling tired or extremely fatigued
• A headache
• Diarrhoea
• Feeling sick or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Coughing is another symptom shared by both conditions, though the nature of the cough can differ.

Cough

Flu and Covid are among the illnesses that become more common during the winter months. If you have influenza, the NHS explains that the cough is usually dry and may develop suddenly, often alongside other symptoms that appear quickly.

In contrast, Covid may cause what the NHS describes as a “new, continuous cough.” This refers to coughing frequently for more than an hour, or experiencing three or more coughing episodes within a 24-hour period.

This distinction is supported by Dr Rupa Parmar, a GP and medical director at Midland Health. In previous comments, she noted that coughs linked to colds are generally mild, while flu tends to cause a dry cough.

“With Covid, the cough is often dry and persistent,” she explained. “Many people cough continuously for long periods or have repeated coughing fits throughout the day.”

Ways To Differentiate Between Covid and Influenza

The type of cough is not the only sign that may help identify which illness you have. A reduced or altered sense of smell or taste is commonly reported in people with Covid and is much less frequent in flu cases.

Breathlessness is another symptom recognised by the NHS as being associated with Covid. While flu can sometimes lead to breathing difficulties, this usually occurs only if the illness becomes severe.

What to do if you have symptoms:

For both Covid and flu, the NHS advises staying at home and limiting contact with others if you or your child have symptoms and either:

• Have a high temperature
• Do not feel well enough to attend work, school, childcare, or carry out normal activities
• The guidance states that normal routines can be resumed once symptoms improve and the temperature returns to normal.

When to seek urgent medical advice:

The NHS recommends contacting your GP or NHS 111 urgently if:

• You are worried about Covid symptoms in yourself or your child and are unsure what to do
• Symptoms are worsening or not improving
• You or your child develop additional signs of illness, such as a rash, poor appetite, or weakness
• A high temperature lasts for five days or more, or does not come down after taking paracetamol
• A baby under three months has a temperature of 38C or above, or is suspected to have a fever
• A child aged three to six months has a temperature of 39C or above, or is suspected to have a fever
• You or your child have flu-like symptoms and you are over 65, pregnant, living with a long-term health condition, have a weakened immune system, or symptoms have not eased after seven days

Every new year brings familiar promises. Eat better. Move more. Quit smoking. Stress less. According to Harvard Health Publishing, the reason these resolutions often fade is not a lack of intent, but the absence of habits that can hold steady once everyday life takes over.

If 2026 is the year you want real, lasting change, the focus needs to shift from short bursts of motivation to health habits that are realistic, repeatable, and kind to your body.

Drawing from insights shared by Harvard Health Publishing, here are seven ways to make health goals finally stick.

1. Choose A Health Goal That Genuinely Motivates You

Harvard Health Publishing notes that goals tied to emotion tend to last longer. Instead of vague aims like “get fit,” think about what truly matters to you. It could be completing a long walk without exhaustion, lowering your blood pressure, or feeling comfortable in your body again. When a goal feels personal, it becomes easier to stay committed.

2. Break Health Goals Into Smaller Daily Actions

Big health goals can feel overwhelming. That is why Harvard Health Publishing recommends breaking them into steps that feel almost too easy. A short walk, a few stretches, or one nutritious meal can build confidence. Small actions done consistently often matter more than dramatic efforts done occasionally.

3. Recognise Why Unhealthy Habits Are Hard To Quit

According to Harvard Health Publishing, many unhealthy behaviours offer immediate comfort. Overeating, smoking, or skipping exercise often meet emotional needs like relaxation or relief from stress. Instead of ignoring this, acknowledge it. Find healthier ways to take breaks, unwind, or reward yourself so you are not fighting against your own needs.

4. Create Accountability Around Your Health Goals

Harvard Health Publishing highlights the role of accountability in sustaining behaviour change. Sharing your goal with a partner, friend, doctor, or even a small online group can make a difference. When others know what you are working toward, you are more likely to stay consistent, especially on difficult days.

5. Reward Progress, Not Just Results

Health improvements happen gradually. Harvard Health Publishing encourages celebrating effort along the way. Acknowledge days when you move your body, eat mindfully, or manage stress better. These small rewards reinforce the habit and prevent burnout caused by waiting only for visible results.

6. Use Setbacks As Learning Moments

Missing workouts or slipping into old habits does not mean failure. Harvard Health Publishing advises viewing setbacks as useful feedback. If a plan feels too demanding, scale it back. If time is an issue, break exercise into shorter sessions. Adjusting your approach makes long-term success more likely.

7. Be Grateful For What You Manage To Do

Perfection is not required for better health. As Harvard Health Publishing reminds us, even small amounts of physical activity or healthier choices benefit the body. Ten minutes of movement is still movement. One balanced meal still nourishes you. Gratitude for effort keeps motivation steady and realistic.

The NHS has released a warning for people who take levothyroxine to manage thyroid conditions. With an estimated 33 million prescriptions issued every year across the UK, levothyroxine is among the most frequently prescribed medicines provided by the NHS.

Levothyroxine is mainly used to treat an underactive thyroid, a condition medically known as hypothyroidism. Depending on a patient’s needs and a GP’s assessment, the medicine is usually prescribed either as a tablet or as a liquid taken by mouth.

What Is Levothyroxine?

The NHS website explains that while most adults and children can safely take levothyroxine, there are specific situations where it may not be recommended. These restrictions are based on a person’s medical history and current health conditions.

People Who May Not Be Able to Take Levothyroxine

According to NHS guidance, levothyroxine may not be suitable if any of the following apply:

1. You have a heart condition such as angina, heart disease, or heart failure
2. You have a condition that affects your adrenal glands
3. You have previously suffered a heart attack
4. You have an overactive thyroid that produces excess thyroid hormone, known as thyrotoxicosis
5. You have diabetes
6. You have had an allergic reaction to levothyroxine or another medicine in the past
7. You have high blood pressure
8. Patients are advised to inform their GP or specialist about any of these conditions before starting treatment.

Levothyroxine: Possible Side Effects to Be Aware Of

Levothyroxine can cause a range of side effects, some of which may require urgent medical attention. Common side effects associated with the medication include:

• Flushing or excessive sweating
• Feeling restless, anxious, or overly energetic
• Difficulty sleeping
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Vomiting
• Shaking or trembling
• Diarrhoea
• Muscle cramps

The NHS notes that this is not a complete list, and other side effects may occur. Patients are advised to read the information leaflet included with their medication for full details.

Levothyroxine: When to Seek Medical Help

Although these side effects can be unpleasant, they are usually mild and do not typically require a hospital visit. If symptoms persist or become troublesome, the NHS recommends speaking to a doctor or pharmacist for advice.

However, certain symptoms should not be ignored. If you notice a fast or irregular heartbeat while taking levothyroxine, you should contact a doctor or call NHS 111 as soon as possible.

More serious symptoms require immediate action. Anyone experiencing chest pain while on levothyroxine is advised to call 999 without delay, as this could signal a medical emergency.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Levothyroxine should be taken only as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change your medication without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe symptoms or a medical emergency, seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services.