Getting Ahead of Flu Season
The winter months have arrived, and with them come the typical sounds of the season. Cough, congestion, and the sniffles seem to be on the rise these days for many. While these symptoms are never fun to deal with, we have taken them to be the winter norm. However, there are simple and easy changes that you can make to your everyday life to prevent getting sick this season.
The CDC recommends a three step plan for preventing the cold and flu this season. The first step is getting the flu vaccine. Many experts have reported that we are now at the height of the flu season. Fear not, clinics and your local doctor’s office are still offering the vaccine. It’s important to remember you open your margin of risk by waiting to receive the vaccine.
The flu vaccine protects against the most common strands of flu viruses that have been projected for the year. Doctors recommend that everyone over the age of six months get the vaccine. The vaccine is especially important for those that are high risk like the elderly and the very young.
The second step of the CDC’s prevention plan is taking everyday steps at home. You can start doing these right away and they are just small changes to your everyday routine. Avoid contact with those that are sick if at all possible. If you do end up getting the flu, make sure to avoid contact with others for up to 24 hours after your fever breaks.
Other everyday steps include covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough. Hand washing is also a serious step in preventing the flu. Soap and water is always the best bet, but if none are available alcohol based sanitizers are a safe alternative. It is also recommended that you avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to limit the spread of germs.
The third step is taking care of yourself if you do actually get the flu. Doctors recommend taking antivirals and all the prescribed medicine in the proper dosages. Antivirals are different than regular antibiotics. They are a prescription pill or liquid that are not sold over the counter.
Another popular ailment this time of year is the common cold. While some of the tips for preventing the cold are the same as the flu, there are some specific precautions you can take. Experts recommend that you do not smoke or take up the habit of smoking. Aside from a myriad of other health risks, smoking can irritate airways and increase susceptibility to colds and other infections. It is also recommended that you keep household surfaces clean with antibacterial wipes. Common areas to wipe down are doorknobs, light switches, telephones, and keyboards, along with other high traffic areas in the home. Doctors also recommend that you reduce stress. This might seem laughable given the fast pace of our everyday lives; however, emotional stress for long periods of time can cause a weakened immune system.
Use these tips, along with a balanced diet and plenty of rest, to keep yourself and your family healthy this cold and flu season. You can also take these tips to work to prevent sickness in your workplace.
