It’s that time of the year again. Used Kleenex and wrappers of honey lemon cough drops scattered around your table. While getting a flu shot is the best way to prevent getting sick, no one is completely immune. Whether you’re already sniffling or just want to take some preventative measures, here are some tips to practice good habits and self-care.
Get a Flu Shot – Vaccination is an important preventative tool. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older gets their annual flu vaccination. Seasonal flu vaccines are designed to protect against infection and illness. While vaccine effectiveness can vary, studies have shown that flu vaccination reduces the risk of the flu by between 40 and 60 percent among the overall population.
Stay Hydrated – This is a general good health practice to keep your body strong and ready to fend off germs. Drinking water can help flush toxins out through the lymph system. If you don’t like the taste (or the lack thereof), hot tea with lemon and honey can be an alternative. The steam relieves congestion – it thins mucus and stimulates the cilia (hair follicles in the nose) that help you breathe easier.
Eat Healthy – Incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet is an important component that will give your body the energy and nutrients it needs, or ensure that you recover as quickly as possible. Foods like salmon (good source of omega-3), oranges and grapefruits (for added vitamin C) and eggs (rich in selenium) help boost the immune system.
Don’t Forget Your Hands – This one might seem obvious but washing your hands is the easiest way to avoid getting sick. According to the CDC, handwashing can prevent about 30 percent of diarrhea-related illnesses and about 20 percent of respiratory infections. Use soap and warm water, but if those aren’t nearby, use an alcohol-based (60 percent or more) hand sanitizer that can reduce the number of germs.
Less Contact – Lastly, try to avoid close contact with people who are sick. The flu virus is like a parasite that travels through the air by coughs or sneezes. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to avoid spreading your illness. Stay at home and rest if needed. Practicing good health habits is the only way to safely escape the treacherous few months of flu season.
