Flu season begins as early as October each year. Is your family prepared?
While it can be difficult to avoid sickness during this time of year, taking preventative measures can help you stay healthy. Follow these tips to avoid getting sick and spreading illness this cold and flu season.
1. Get vaccinated.
According to the CDC, getting a flu vaccine each year is the most effective way to protect yourself during flu season. It’s recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months. Plan to get vaccinated by the end of October to be ready before the season begins.
You can get a flu shot at your primary care provider’s office or local pharmacy. Want to learn more about the flu shot and how it works to protect you? Read more from the CDC here.
2. Wash your hands.
Another effective way to prevent sickness and the spread of germs is to wash your hands thoroughly, and often. If soap and water are not available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is another good option.
Teach kids how to wash their hands (including scrubbing with soap) and remind them to do so frequently. In addition to washing your hands, remember to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially when you are in public.
3. Cover your cough.
The flu spreads through droplets when you cough, sneeze and even talk. Always cover your cough with your hand or a tissue if available. Wash your hands afterward.
Finally, be aware of your surroundings and considerate of others when coughing and sneezing.
4. Keep your distance.
Another way to protect yourself is to avoid being around people who are sick. This includes family, friends and coworkers. Adults can spread the flu a whole day before coming down with symptoms and up to five days after, according the Red Cross.
Not sure if your sniffle means you’re sick? It can be hard to tell the difference between allergies and the cold, flu or COVID-19. Here’s how to tell the difference.
5. Keep it clean.
During flu season, make it a priority to clean traffic areas often to reduce the spread of germs. This includes countertops, doorknobs, light switches and bathrooms as well as electronics such as phones and computers.
You can use disinfecting products such as sprays and wipes to effectively eliminate germs – just be sure to follow directions on the package.
6. Protect your health.
To fight off sickness during cold and flu season, maintain healthy habits to boost your immune system. Get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet, exercise when possible and keep your stress levels under control.
The holiday season can be hectic and stressful – take time to prioritize your health.
7. Stay home.
If you do get sick, it’s important to take time to rest and recover. Call your doctor if you believe you have the flu. If you are a member of a high- risk group, they may prescribe an antiviral to help you recover.
Stay home for the duration of your illness to avoid spreading it to others. The CDC advises that you stay home until 24 hours have passed with improved symptoms AND no fever without the use of fever reducers (such as Tylenol).
Stay Healthy This Cold and Flu Season
ACV Health is here to help you stay healthy all year round, from getting a flu shot to stocking up on sick-season essentials at our pharmacy. Your annual wellness exam is a great checkpoint to ensure you’re taking good care of yourself and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Don’t wait until you’re sick to consider your health. Schedule an appointment with our providers today for an annual wellness exam and to get your flu shot.
