How to Fight the Cold and the Flu This Season
As cold and flu season approaches, tips on avoiding the worst respiratory viruses are essential to weathering the coming months, when health experts expect flu cases to increase compared to the last two years.
As the weather changes and winter approaches, we begin to prepare for the respiratory virus season. The flu, COVID-19, and even the common cold can make us miserable, take time away from work and school, and prevent us from enjoying activities with family and friends. These diseases can be worse for older people or those with weakened immune systems. After 2 years of below-average flu cases, health authorities fear an increase in the number of cases. What can we do to prepare for the viral onslaught? Here are 3 tips to beat the cold and flu season!
1. Practice healthy habits. An overall healthy lifestyle not only prolongs life, but also fights colds and flu. The tried and true advice of getting plenty of sleep, exercising, eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated is essential year-round. These habits are even more important during respiratory season. Our immune system relies on a healthy body to fight off invaders. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we are more likely to get sick and take longer to recover. Taking a little time each day to get an extra glass of water or to prepare a balanced and nutritious meal will pay off in the long run in fewer illnesses and better overall health.
2. Wash your hands. Keeping our hands clean is one of the most effective ways to curb the spread of many diseases, including the common cold, flu, and COVID-19. Washing hands also prevents diarrhea and infections caused by bacteria and reduces the need for antibiotics. Lathering with soap and water for 20 seconds is the best way to ensure germs are removed. Using a paper towel to turn off the faucet will help ensure you don’t pick up more bugs on your freshly clean hands. If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
3. Get your flu shot. As we battle COVID, some of us have forgotten that the flu can be a serious respiratory illness and one we should all avoid. Thousands of people are hospitalized and even die from flu complications each year. Anyone over 6 months should get their annual flu shot, ideally in September or October. There is a special high-dose flu vaccine for people over 65 that is even more effective in this age group. You can get a COVID-19 booster shot at the same time as a flu shot. The COVID-19 vaccines now available are more effective against the latest strains of the virus. But don’t forget your flu shot for extra protection.
The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us some important lessons in containing the spread of respiratory disease. We know that a healthy lifestyle, hand washing and vaccinations are key to preventing or reducing the severity of infection. Following the same simple principles can reduce your chances of catching a cold or the flu.