COVID-19 has taken over everyone’s minds these days, but that doesn’t mean other diseases and viruses don’t exist. The flu, while diminished in the face of all the precautions people take for COVID-19, is still alive and well. Here’s how to keep your family safe this flu season.
Get the Flu Shot
It’s important to get your vaccinations in. Just because COVID-19 vaccinations have stolen the show doesn’t mean you should ignore the flu shot. Anyone over the age of six months can receive it and it’s particularly important if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
Cover Your Mouth
If everyone covered their mouth or coughed and sneezed into their elbow, the spread of many diseases would be drastically reduced. This is simply good manners and while coughing into your elbow won’t prevent you from catching the flu, it will prevent you from spreading anything to other people. Set a good example and others will follow suit.
Keep Your Hands Clean
Everyone is aware by now that handwashing is an essential part of preventing illness. If you want to stay healthy, avoid touching your face and wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Be sure to wash very thoroughly. You should aim for 20 seconds of scrubbing and then rinse well before drying.
Hand sanitizer should be a staple in your pocket, as well. If you can’t wash your hands with soap and water, use the hand sanitizer as often as possible.
Don’t Touch Contaminated Surfaces
For the purposes of the virus, you can assume that any surface that is touched by hands is dirty. This includes everything from door handles and stair rails to light switches and tables. Since you will need to touch these at some point, you should use a tissue or your sleeve to do so and then discard or wash it as soon as possible.
Stay Healthy
Eating well and taking your vitamins can help keep your immune system in good condition. When you provide your body with the food it needs to stay healthy and to keep your immune system functional, it can fight off disease easier.
Your diet isn’t the only way to stay healthy, though. You also need to keep stress to a minimum, get enough sleep, and stay hydrated. All these factors help you prevent the flu.
If you suspect you may be ill, you should talk to a doctor. Fortunately, you don’t even need to leave your home to see a doctor. The NHS site allows you to speak to a medical expert online, without leaving the comfort of your own home. Book your appointment today.
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