While it’s impossible to completely avoid getting a viral infection such as the flu, it is possible to lower your risk. Getting an annual influenza vaccine is the single best way to prevent seasonal flu. Here are some additional flu prevention tips:
Keep Your Distance
Much like the virus that causes COVID-19, many experts believe the virus that causes flu is mainly spread through respiratory droplets that become airborne when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, and are then inhaled by an uninfected person nearby. Therefore, to avoid contracting and spreading illnesses, it is essential to practice social distancing, which involves maintaining a physical distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others. And most importantly, you should stay home when you are sick.
Wash Your Hands
The flu virus can also be transmitted when an uninfected person touches a surface that is contaminated with infected respiratory droplets, then touches his or her mouth, nose, or eyes. As such, frequent and thorough handwashing with warm water and plenty of soap is an effective way to protect yourself from germs. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can serve as a substitute in a pinch.
Stay Active
Usually, flu season is ushered in by a change in the weather. As it gets chillier outside, you might be tempted to ditch your exercise routine and curl up under a warm blanket on the couch instead. Don’t do it! Regular physical activity is a simple and smart way to bolster your body’s immune system, which is your best defense against illness-causing viruses and bacteria. There’s no need to invest in an expensive gym membership, though. A simple activity such as taking a brisk walk around your neighborhood each day can be an effective way to maintain your health.
Get Enough Sleep
One of your most powerful weapons against flu and other illnesses is rest, which is easy to do and costs nothing. The preventive and healing benefits of sleep are well-documented. Most notably, with consistent sleep, your immune system will grow stronger and function more effectively. To ensure optimum health benefits, most people need between seven and nine hours of sleep every night.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
Eating healthy foods is an excellent way to boost your immune system and prevent flu. By incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats into your daily diet, you can ensure that your body gets a wide array of beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. If you have questions, reach out to a medical provider who can provide personalized advice on which foods and supplements are best for meeting your specific health needs.
Flu Testing & Treatment at Medella Urgent Care
If despite your best efforts to stay healthy during flu season you’ve developed flu-like symptoms and need help managing them, turn to Medella Urgent Care in Magnolia or Vintage Park, Texas. In addition to influenza A and B virus testing and treatment, we offer a full range of urgent care services, including COVID-19 genetic, antigen, and antibody testing. Stop by today!
