It’s that time of year again! As the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, we start to dread what’s around the corner: flu season. But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can get through flu season without getting sick. Here are the four pillars of flu season preparation.
Pillar 1: Get a Flu Shot
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of the best things you can do to prepare for flu season is to get a flu shot. Flu shots are safe and effective, and they help your body build up immunity to the most common strains of the virus.
You should get a flu shot every year, but it’s especially important to get one if you’re pregnant, over the age of 65, or have a chronic medical condition like diabetes or heart disease. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu shot every year. Flu shots are available at many doctor’s offices, clinics, pharmacies, and even some workplaces.
Getting a flu shot is quick and easy, and it’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu.
Pillar 2: Wash Your Hands Often
Handwashing is one of the most important and effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Germs can easily spread from person to person, and often do so through contact with the hands. By washing your hands often, you can help to reduce the spread of germs and protect yourself and others from illness.
Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly, using warm water and soap. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, making sure to cover all surfaces of your hands, including between the fingers and under the nails. Afterward, dry your hands completely with a clean towel or air dryer.
By taking these simple steps, you can help to keep yourself and others healthy.
Pillar 3: Avoid Touching Your Face
According to health experts, one of the easiest ways to catch the flu is by touching your face. So, do your best to avoid doing it!
If you must touch your face (for example, when you’re putting on makeup or glasses), make sure you wash your hands first. This is because the flu virus can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours, and if you touch your face after coming into contact with a contaminated surface, you’re likely to get sick.
What’s more, touching your face allows the flu virus to enter your body through mucus membranes like your eyes, nose, or mouth. Therefore, if you want to avoid getting the flu this season, make sure you keep your hands away from your face!
Pillar 4: Disinfect Your Home and Work Spaces
Germs can linger on surfaces for hours or even days, making it important to disinfect these areas regularly. This is especially important during flu season, when the flu virus can easily spread from person to person.
To disinfect surfaces, you can use a household cleaner or make your own disinfectant by mixing bleach and water in a ratio of 1:10. Be sure to clean areas that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, countertops, and keyboards.
By taking these simple steps, you can help protect yourself and others from the flu virus.
Stay Healthy This Winter
The best way to avoid getting sick during the cold and flu season is by following some simple tips. Get vaccinated, stay healthy, wash your hands often, and avoid close contact with sick people if possible! These are all great ways to help keep you and your loved ones healthy this winter.
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This article is intended for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only and should not be construed as advice, guidance or counsel. It is provided without warranty of any kind.