how to prevent a cold and flu this season

How to Prevent a Cold and Flu this Season






Sure, we all want to avoid getting sick. However, most of the time we find out it's usually too late to guard ourselves against colds, flu, and other contagious illnesses. The coughing, sneezing, and fatigue lets us know that somehow our body’s barrier against illness has been breached. That's because we can be exposed to the illness before the person who has it shows any symptoms. The timing of colds and flu are very unpredictable and can vary from season to season.

Colds and flu are both highly contagious. In the beginning stages, a bad cold and a mild case of the flu might seem alike. However, it is important that no matter which one it could be we try to stop the spread of such illnesses. After all getting sick is not our idea of fun. We should then ask ourselves the question, what things contribute to getting sick and what can we do about it?

We get sick when we have to fight off viruses or bacteria that have invaded our bodies and the fight is lost. This gives way to symptoms such as fevers, runny noses, coughs and sneezes. These are our body’s way of getting rid of those nasty little bugs. Still, we have to be careful where we cough or sneeze, because if we cough on someone we pass the disease to them. The CDC or Center for the Prevention of Disease has stated that a cough or sneeze can spread bacteria filled droplets up to six feet away from its source.

There are many that believe that sickness is simply a quirk of human evolution. Others think that mysterious forces, such as evil spirits, are the cause of our health problems. Every person has different thoughts about sickness, but we all share one common thought. What can we do to not get sick?

One common way today is by getting a flu shot. Keep in mind that vaccines aren't always 100% effective. Practicing good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands will often go a long way in helping stop the spread of germs and prevent sickness. Remember cough or sneeze into a tissue. No tissue available? Then use your arm. NOT YOUR HANDS which you will use later to touch things. YUCK!

If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine. Also keep your surroundings clean. Make sure you clean and disinfect areas that are often touched such as phones, remotes, keyboards both at home and at work. If you’re in a house full of dust and dirty laundry, there’s a pretty big change your going to get sick. You should also keep your distance from people who are sick. For example, don’t shake hands if possible. And finally but not less important getting enough rest and eating healthy before getting sick will give your body a better fighting chance.

No matter what method you use, make an effort to help stop the spread of illnesses during this season. Keep in mind that everything we do can help keep your love ones and yourself healthy.