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'Tis the season to be jolly, but unfortunately, it is also a time for colds and flu! When temperatures drop, viruses can spread; if your immune system isn't up to the task, you're likely to catch the latest bug in your area. Thankfully, there are many simple steps you can take to ward off sickness.
The term "germs" refers to the microorganisms that can cause disease. Because they are too small to see with your eyes, it is important to practice good hygiene so that you can reduce contact with germs. Avoid spreading germs with the following actions.
- Cover Your Coughs
Cough into your elbow, not your hands. This will prevent the spread of germs in two different ways. It will block the germs that are coming out of your mouth and it will keep your hands germ free. - Limit Interaction with Public Objects
Cold and flu germs are easily passed through hand-to-hand contact. Any way you can avoid touching public objects will limit your risk. - Carry Hand Sanitizer
When researchers from Children's Hospital in Boston studied 292 families for 5 months, they found that those who carried hand sanitizer with them had 59% fewer cases of stomach bugs than nonusers. When used correctly—squirt out enough gel so your hands still feel damp after rubbing together for 10 to 15 seconds—these products nearly eliminate germs. - Wash Your Hands
Hand sanitizer is not a replacement for hand washing! Follow the steps below from the World Health Organization to make sure you are washing your hands correctly. Note that washing your hands properly takes about as long as singing "Happy Birthday" twice.
Try a healthy routine to keep your immune system as strong as it can be to help fight off any germs or illnesses. If you do start to get sick this will also help your body fight it fast so you can get back to your life.
- Healthy Habits
To keep your immune system strong, you want your body working the best it can. Make sure you are exercising and eating healthy. If you do start to get sick this will help your body fight it fast so you can get back to normal. - Stay Hydrated
Make sure you are drinking enough water. It is important to make sure you replenish the water in your body throughout the day. - Take a Daily Multivitamin
Look for one with 100% of the recommended daily values of vitamins A, B6, B12, C, and D and the minerals chromium, copper, folic acid, selenium, calcium, and zinc. Take your multi during a meal that contains a bit of fat so you can absorb the nutrients better. - Get a Flu Shot
An influenza vaccination can reduce the risk of flu illness by 50 to 60% in the general population and can decrease the severity and side effects if you get sick. - Get a Good Night's Sleep
None of the above will help you if your body is too tired to fight off infections. Make sure you are getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night so you are well rested.
Don't forget to stay warm in the winter, especially during cold weather activities outdoors . You'll lose body heat from any part of your body that is exposed, so keep covered! Key winter wardrobe items include a Coat or Jacket, Scarf, Mittens or Gloves, Sweater, Pants, Warm Socks, and Boots.
Stay warm and healthy this winter season!
