Getting the flu can be one of the most memorable times of your life. It is also one of the most miserable. Almost everybody wants to prevent getting the flu. Follows is a few tips on how to prevent catching a nasty case the flu.
- Get the shot. A flu shot can help to prevent the flu. But note that I said, help. Getting a flu shot will not guarantee that you will not get the flu. Influenza, the proper name for the flu, comes in many different strains. Most strains are prevented by the shot, but if a new strain develops, the shot can not prevent it. If shots make you nervous, there is now a flu nasal spray which seems to be just as effective.
- Wash your hands. Lots of people, even in today’s modern society, do not realize how effective soap and water can be in helping to prevent illness. Washing your hands frequently and maybe even keeping a bottle of disinfectant gel on hand will help prevent the spread of flu (and other germs) to you.
- Get your sleep, water and vitamins. A weak body means a weak immune system. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep, enough water and a good balanced diet. This will make sure that your body and immune system will be ready to rumble should you need to fight off a few flu germs that come your way.
- Clean often and well. Try to clean as much as possible the places that get a lot of hand traffic. These might be door knobs, phones, water fountains, handles and countertops.
- Don’t share. So it goes against the basics you learned in kindergarten, but during the flu season don’t share things like drinks, pens, or any other items that are frequently handled or that may come in contact with someone’s mouth.
- Don’t get hot, keep things humid. While it is cold outside, make sure that your heater isn’t turned up too high and that the air has plenty of moisture. A dry, hot atmosphere in your house or place of work will dry out your nasal passages, allowing flu germs to more easily get in your body.
- Quit smoking. No one wants to hear it but it’s true. Smoking is bad for your health. Not only can smoking kill you on its own, it can also make you more susceptible to other illnesses, like the flu.
So, there you have it. Now of course, no one can guarantee that you will be able to prevent getting the flu, but if you follow these few tips you will greatly reduce the chances that you will have to suffer through a flu bout this season.
For more infomation about the flu, visit the CDC’s page about the flu and flu prevention.
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