While the winter months bring holiday cheer and snow activities, they also bring illnesses like the common cold and influenza, commonly known as the flu.
Flu activity is currently elevated and continues to increase across the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
To keep yourself and your loved ones healthy this flu season, the CDC has provided healthy habits that can help prevent the flu.
As noted by the CDC, the best way to reduce your risk of getting the flu is to get vaccinated each year. Influenza vaccines have a well-established, favorable safety profile and are widely available, recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Immunizations are available at Valley pediatric primary care, adult primary care, and walk-in care practices.
The following are other actions you can take to stop the spread of germs and protect yourself and others from the flu this season:
- Avoid contact with those who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick. Once your symptoms are better and you have not had a fever, you can return to your normal activities.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. This helps to prevent the spread of viruses. A mask can also be worn for additional prevention.
- Wash your hands with soap and water. If not available, hand sanitizer also works.
- Avoid touching your face. Touching your eyes, nose, and mouth is a sure way to spread germs if a person touches something that is contaminated.
- Practice good hygiene and other healthy habits. During this time, it is important to frequently clean surfaces that have a lot of traffic. Getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating well are also key to keeping you healthy.
Stay safe and healthy this flu season!
About the Author
Dr. Gaffin is an infectious disease specialist at The Valley Hospital.
