Influenza is nothing to sneeze at. The number of deaths in the United States attributed to Influenza varies from year to year, but can range from as few as 3,000 to as high as 49,000, as per a 31 year review posted by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control); it pays to be prepared. Try the following tips to help you fight off the flu.
- Get your flu shot (AKA influenza vaccine) every year, unless contraindicated for you. The Influenza Vaccine is approved for use in people ages 6 months and up. See my blog post on 10/5/11, at this link: http://carole-jakucs.blogspot.com/2011/10/fancy-flu-if-not-get-your-shot-part-1.html for more info on this.
- Wash your hands well (all surfaces) with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds, prior to eating and touching you face, eyes, nose and mouth. This helps to prevent transferring germs from your hands to other parts of your body that serve as a portal to your system.
- Carry and use alcohol based hand sanitizers; place one each in your car, pocket, backpack, or purse. Doing this is great especially if you are not near a sink with soap and water to clean your hands. *For an extra boost of cleaning, use it after washing with soap and water (and after hands are dried) if you are concerned you were exposed to a high traffic germ area(s) such as shared door handles, desk tops etc. Or handling items from someone who is already sick. *Rub it on all hand surfaces until it dries.
- Use a paper towel to touch door knobs, faucets and toilet knobs when using public restrooms (or sharing a bathroom with others such as in a dormitory or with someone who may already be ill). Make sure to use a paper towel to turn faucets on, then a fresh one after your hands are clean to turn the faucet off and open the door. If you miss this step, you will be transmitting germs from the faucets and door knobs from other people onto your hands.
- Get your rest. Getting the proper amount of sleep each night (7 – 8 hours) will help to keep your immune system healthy. Sleep deprivation can inhibit your body’s ability to fight off infections.
- Stay hydrated. Dry mucus membranes (eyes, nose and mouth) diminish our ability to fight off germs that we are exposed to.
- Eat healthy foods. Consume a diet rich with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, which give our body an abundance and variety of nutrients that help us fight off infections and disease.
- Steer clear of crowds once flu season hits, as much as possible, to reduce your chances of repeated exposure.
Practicing these tips above and working them into your daily routine, will help to prevent catching colds and flu anytime of the year, but are especially helpful when influenza is upon us when flu season hits.
