Providence Health News: How to Stay Healthy During Flu Season

How to Stay Healthy During Flu Season

As the fall season approaches, so does the beginning of flu season. This time of year can be a challenge for many people as they try to avoid catching the flu. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to protect yourself and stay healthy. This article will explore some of the best practices for staying healthy during flu season.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

One of the best ways to protect yourself from the flu is to wash your hands frequently. This is especially important when you are interacting with others in public spaces, such as at work or school. Make sure to use warm water and soap, and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. You can also use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not immediately available.

Avoid Touching Your Face

Another important step in preventing the spread of the flu is to avoid touching your face. This can be challenging, as we often touch our faces without even realizing it. However, by being aware of this habit, you can work to limit the number of times that you touch your face. This can greatly reduce your risk of contracting the flu or other viruses.

Get a Flu Shot

Getting a flu shot is a great way to protect yourself from the flu. The flu shot is a vaccine that contains a small amount of the virus, which helps your body build up immunity to it. While the flu shot is not 100% effective, it can greatly reduce your risk of contracting the flu. It is recommended that everyone get a flu shot every year.

Practice Good Hygiene

In addition to washing your hands and avoiding touching your face, it is also important to practice good hygiene in other ways. This includes covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, using disposable tissues, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. By taking these simple steps, you can greatly reduce your risk of contracting the flu.

Stay Home When You’re Sick

If you do become sick with the flu, it is important to stay home from work or school. This will help prevent the virus from spreading to others. Make sure to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Over-the-counter medications may also help relieve your symptoms, but be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any new medication.

Conclusion

Flu season can be tough, but there are many things that you can do to protect yourself and stay healthy. By washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face, getting a flu shot, practicing good hygiene, and staying home when you’re sick, you can greatly reduce your risk of contracting the flu. With these simple steps, you can enjoy the fall season while staying healthy and flu-free.

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