Avoid the flu with these handy tips.
Wash
with soap and water.
Wash your hands often. Scrub for at least 20 seconds or more. When you wash
your hands, make sure to scrub all areas of your hands––even the tops and under
your fingernails. Singing the Happy
Birthday song will help make sure you are washing long enough.
Avoid
shaking hands.
During cold and flu season, people will understand that you would rather not
shake their hands and they will appreciate the gesture.
Getting
exercise.
When working out, be sure to wipe down all equipment that you use before you
use it. Yes, we should all wipe it down after we use the machines, but not
everyone follows this rule. It’s best to be on the side of caution. If you are
feeling sick, stick to moderate exercise.
Avoid
crowds and sick people.
In the early stages of a flu or cold, people may not be aware that they are
sick. It is best to try and avoid crowed areas––this is important especially
for babies and the elderly.
Cover
your mouth.
When
you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue. If you don’t have a tissue
available, cough or sneeze into the bend of your arm. Make sure to throw away
the tissue and wash your hands.
Sleep
well.
Getting enough rest––at least seven to nine hours of sleep a night––can help
keep your immune system strong. If you do get a cold or the flu, sleeping will
help your body fight against the virus.
Eating
healthy.
Eating
nutritious, colorful foods will help keep your immune system healthy. Make sure
and get some protein in your diet to help boost your immune system.
Keeping
your surroundings clean.
Wiping down doorknobs, faucet handles and counters with antibacterial wipes or
spray will help keep the flu at bay. Don’t forget those television remotes.
Other areas that you may not have considered are shopping carts, public pens,
and self check out terminals.
Use
hand sanitizer.
Sometimes soap and water are not convenient. Carry alcohol-based hand sanitizer
with you, that way you will always be able to disinfect your hands.
Watch
your hands.
Don’t put your hands around your face. Rubbing your eyes or biting your nails
are great ways for the germs to get inside your body.
Stay
hydrated.
Drink lots of fluids, especially water, and avoid caffeinated drinks.
Clean
personal items.
One of the most common things that we use need to be wiped down––our cell
phones. Don’t use other people’s cell phones during flu season.
Decrease
stress.
Keeping stress at bay can help your immune system stay strong. Taking deep breaths,
meditation or doing activities that you enjoy can help to reduce your stress
levels.
Avoid contact.
Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid public places like
the mall, theaters, or the grocery store at busy times.
Stay away. If you have a family member in your house that is sick, don’t share linens, utensils or dishes. Use a face mask and gloves if you need to care for your loved one.
Remember that you can spread the flu even if you don’t feel sick. And if you do get the flu or a cold, stay home and take care of yourself. Get seven to nine hours of sleep a night (or more!) If you need anything, don’t leave the house. Call on a friend or family member to run your errand so that you can get rest and so you don’t spread germs to other people. Lastly, enjoy some warm chicken soup!
