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Published on: Jul 07, 2020
2 minute read
By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

Asymptomatic COVID Infections – Are You Safe?

Asymptomatic COVID infections – are you safe?

Patients with COVID usually exhibit signs of coughing, fever, and fatigue. This can develop into further respiratory problems including difficulty breathing, pneumonia in both lungs, and in severe cases the need to ventilate a patient in an intensive care setting. But what if you are asymptomatic? Do you need to worry? Surely you get the benefits of immunity without the dangers of life-threatening symptoms.

In our previous blog, we discussed how a study showed 41% of people with COVID were asymptomatic. However, they had the same viral load as their symptomatic counterparts. This paper published in Nature Medicine suggests that even the asymptomatic patients developed signs of lung inflammation without showing any outward symptoms. Could asymptomatic patients still be damaged by COVID? It's not easy to study this subset of patients, as they do not get tested routinely or present to hospital for examination or investigation.

This study looked at 37 individuals in the Wanzhou District who were diagnosed with COVID via swab test but did not show any symptoms before the test or during hospitalization. These patients were found through the extensive contact tracing program set up in Central China. Whilst in hospital 57% showed abnormalities in the lung fields on a CT scan, including the “ground glass” appearance classic for COVID pneumonia. These changes could be due to fluid or blood in the area or due to inflammation caused directly by the infection.

What does this mean for the individual in the long term? This is difficult to say, especially since COVID has only been around for a few months so long term follow up is simply impossible to state accurately. Depending on the size and severity of the inflammation it may resolve spontaneously with no lasting damage, or the inflammation could cause scarring of the lung tissue that only becomes evident several years or decades down the line. It's difficult to tell.

The study also looked at two other factors in these patients. Compared to their symptomatic counterparts, asymptomatic patients were found to shed viral particles for several more days. It is unclear the significance of this, or whether this makes them more infective or prone to transmitting the infection for a longer period of time. It does add support to the theory asymptomatic people should not believe themselves exempt from spreading the infection.

Secondly, the study looked at the prevalence of antibodies present in the patient's blood. These antibodies can be used as a surrogate for immunity. In theory, after infection occurs our body has the ability to rapidly produce these antibodies against the virus in the event of a second infection. This would neutralize the infection before it could develop into a serious disease.

Looking at these antibodies the researchers found antibody levels against the SARS and MERS virus to last over 2 years. However, against SARS-CoV-2, the antibody levels fall within 2-3 months, providing only a short duration of immunity. This is worrisome for individuals and countries hoping to achieve herd immunity or at least immunity to the virus after a mild or asymptomatic infection.

So what should we take away from this? Perhaps an asymptomatic infection is not the perfect scenario. Damage does occur to your lungs, albeit temporary damage. You are still able to spread it to vulnerable people. And your immunity may not last as long as other infections.

Therefore be safe. Maintain social distancing, follow government advice on wearing a mask. And if you can, avoid excessive socializing or close contact with lots of other people. The virus hasn’t gone away, and it is still dangerous.

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Switch Soda with Detox Water: A Simple Step Toward Better Metabolic Health

Soda and sugary beverages have become a major contributor to India’s rising burden of metabolic diseases. According to NFHS-5 and ICMR data, high intake of sugary drinks significantly increases the risk of obesity, high blood sugar, fatty liver disease and heart problems. Replacing these drinks with detox water is one of the easiest and most sustainable lifestyle changes for preventive health.

Detox water is not a medical treatment-it is a healthy hydration alternative that supports the body’s natural processes. SecondMedic encourages simple, evidence-based swaps like this to help individuals improve daily habits without drastic diets.

Why Soda Is a Major Health Concern in India

1. Extremely high sugar content

A single can of soda contains:

8-10 teaspoons of sugar
Over 140 empty calories

This spikes glucose levels and increases insulin resistance.

2. Artificial additives

Flavours, colours and preservatives strain the liver and may worsen inflammation.

3. Link to chronic diseases

ICMR and Lancet studies show soda consumption increases risk of:

Type 2 diabetes
Hypertension
Weight gain
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

4. Poor hydration

Soda does not hydrate the body. Caffeine and sugar can actually increase dehydration.

Benefits of Switching to Detox Water

Detox water provides hydration and additional wellness support through natural ingredients.

• Improved metabolism

Ingredients like lemon, ginger and cinnamon support metabolic balance.

• Better digestion

Mint and ginger soothe the digestive system.

• Stable blood sugar

Sugar-free detox blends prevent rapid glucose spikes.

• Enhanced hydration

Water absorption improves when infused with electrolytes and antioxidants.

• Reduced cravings

Replacing soda breaks dependence on sugar.

• Skin health improvement

Hydration + antioxidants help reduce dullness and inflammation.

Popular Detox Water Ingredients and Their Benefits

Lemon

Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helps improve digestion and immunity.

Mint

Reduces bloating and supports gut comfort.

Cucumber

Hydrates deeply and reduces water retention.

Cinnamon

Known for supporting stable blood sugar.

Ginger

Anti-inflammatory and excellent for digestion.

Apple slices

Add natural sweetness without added sugar.

Berries

High in antioxidants; good for heart health.

Easy Detox Water Recipes

1. Lemon + Ginger Detox

Supports metabolic health and digestion.

2. Cucumber + Mint Hydration Blend

Great for daily hydration and cooling.

3. Apple + Cinnamon Water

Helps stabilise glucose naturally.

4. Mixed Berry Infused Water

Boosts antioxidant levels for skin and heart health.

5. Turmeric + Lemon Detox

Mild anti-inflammatory properties.

How Detox Water Helps Reduce Soda Dependence

1. Replaces sweetness gradually

Natural fruit flavours reduce the urge for sugary beverages.

2. Keeps you full

Hydration decreases cravings, especially in the evening.

3. Offers variety

Different combinations keep the habit interesting.

4. Improves energy

Consistent hydration reduces fatigue and brain fog.

The Science Behind Hydration and Metabolic Health

According to WHO and NITI Aayog health reports:

Hydration improves nutrient transport
Helps maintain blood pressure
Aids liver detoxification
Supports kidney function

Soda disrupts these processes, while detox water supports them.

How SecondMedic Helps You Transition from Soda to Healthy Hydration

• AI Health Guide

Identifies sugar consumption patterns and suggests healthier beverage alternatives.

• Dietitian support

Provides personalised hydration plans for metabolic health.

• Preventive care tracking

Monitors progress for weight, energy and blood sugar.

• Health education

SecondMedic guides families, teenagers and adults on sustainable lifestyle swaps.

Tips to Make the Switch Successfully

1. Start gradually

Replace one soda per day with detox water.

2. Add natural flavour

Use citrus or herbs to enhance taste.

3. Keep it accessible

Carry a bottle to avoid impulse soda purchases.

4. Choose chilled detox water

Cold drinks create a similar refreshing experience.

5. Track your progress

Energy and digestion improve noticeably within 2-3 weeks.

Conclusion

Switching soda with detox water is a small step with big preventive health benefits. It reduces sugar intake, supports metabolic wellness, improves hydration and strengthens long-term health. With personalized recommendations from SecondMedic, this transition becomes easy, enjoyable and effective.

References

• ICMR - Sugar Consumption & Metabolic Health Report
• NFHS-5 - Obesity, Diet and Lifestyle Indicators
• NITI Aayog - Preventive Health & Hydration Behaviour Study
• WHO - Health Effects of Sugary Drinks
• Lancet - Soda Consumption & Disease Burden India
• Statista - Beverage Consumption Trends in India
• EY-FICCI - Lifestyle Behaviour & Preventive Health Report

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