Cold and flu season (or should I say cold, flu, strep, bronchitis, and pneumonia season) is right around the corner. According to the CDC, the flu season can start as early as October and last as late as May. No one wants to be stuck curled up sick in bed. Here are tips to stay healthy this season:
Get Your Flu Shot
Getting your flu shot is the #1 way to prevent catching the flu this season. A lot of people feel that getting the flu vaccine will “give you the flu” or “make you sick,” but that is a complete myth. Flu shots are made with dead viruses or without any virus at all. Flu vaccines are not made with live viruses therefore they can’t give you a live illness.
Wash Your Hands and Keep Them Away from Your Face
Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. Hands touch your eyes, nose, and mouth more than you think and those three locations are a huge pathway for germs. A 2013 study in the Journal of Occupational Health found that people that occasionally touch their face are 41% more likely to contract an upper respiratory infection. Try not to touch your face!
Keep Stress to a Minimum
There have been studies proving that stress is related to sickness. Stress is a part of everyday life. It is significant to try to keep your hours at work at a normal amount. Good coping skills are essential. I know it can be challenging, but try not to stress over the little things.
SLEEP SLEEP SLEEP
Sleep has a huge impact on a person’s immune system. Studies show that people who don’t get quality sleep or enough sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as the common cold or the flu. Lack of sleep can also affect how fast you recover if you do get sick. Try and sleep a full 8 hours a night.
The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. Marque Medical is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.