As we slowly adjust to colder months, filled with hot chocolate, sweaters, cozy fireplaces, and early nights, we all know that with this comes the dreadful red runny nose, scratchy throats, and coughs that just don’t seem to fully go away.
Getting a cold or flu can make for a miserable couple of days, especially when you have work, school, or household tasks to tend to. But, here are some tips to help you stay safe during flu season.
1. Get a flu shot
Yes, this is the most obvious “tip” but it’s so important. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommends anyone who is old enough and medically cleared to get vaccinated against the flu. The vaccine protects you from three different variants of the flu virus. It is very accessible and gives you a good head start if you don’t already have the flu. And as for your fear of needles, rather 5 seconds of “pain” than days with a stuffy nose.
2. Wash your hands
Washing your hands is the easiest and best way to protect yourself from germs. Studies have shown that washing your hands can prevent respiratory illness transmission by more than 20 percent. And if soap and water are not easily accessible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
3. Avoid close contact
This one may seem a bit harsh but limit the time spent with people who are exhibiting flu or cold symptoms. Don’t ice them out, that’s rude, but maybe wear a mask around them and speak to them from a distance. This is to protect yourself during flu season, so no hard feelings.
4. Clean and disinfect surfaces
Germs tend to live on hard surfaces for long periods of time – sometimes for several days. Kitchen and bathroom countertops, door handles, desks, and electronics are all breeding grounds for bacteria. Wiping down these surfaces with germ-killing cleaning products or sanitizer can go a long way in protecting yourself and your immune system.
5. Boost your immune system
You can boost your immune system and help your body fight off sickness by adding the right vitamins and nutrients to your diet. Research suggests that vitamin C can help shorten the duration of colds or even help prevent them. Zinc can decrease how long your common cold lasts, and vitamin D3 is known to support your immune system. Do not take any immune boosters without checking with your doctor first!
6. Get enough sleep
Research shows that people who get less than seven hours of sleep each night are three times more likely to catch a cold than those who sleep 8 hours each night. Getting quality sleep on a regular basis strengthens your immune system, which helps your body fight colds and flu.
