Summer is coming to an end and fall is on its way, and unfortunately these next couple of months are known as cold and flu season. It seems as if we come down with acold or the flu when we have the most going on, and perhaps this year, you’ve decided enough is enough, this season you are going to stay healthy.
Although avoiding that yearly cold may seem impossible, there are ways to boost your immune system to either beat or avoid it all together. Take these 6 steps to not only give your immune system a step up, but to avoid catching the flu or any other viruses this fall and winter season.
#1 Avoid close contact with anyone who may be ill
The first and foremost best way to avoid getting sick in the next few seasons is to avoid close contact with anyone that may be ill. If someone says they feel like they are coming down with something, that is often one of the times they are the most contagious. Avoid close contact with them and especially stay away from sharing any drinks or food with that person.
#2 If you are sick, stay home
All too often, we try and continue going about our normal schedules when we are sick. In fact, Americans are notorious for still going to work even when they are sick. If you aren’t feeling well, stay home. Don’t expose anyone else to your illness, and get the rest that your body needs to heal. You will thank yourself later.
#3 Wash, wash, wash your hands
Wash your hands often during the flu season. Anytime you come into contact with items in a public space – such as a grocery store, an airport, a classroom – make sure you wash your hands well after. It is suggested that you wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap for at least 30 seconds with warm water.
#4 Avoid touching your hands to your face (mouth and nose)
Your hands are the most exposed to germs, especially after an outing. You never know what germs are lurking on your hands so even if they are washed, try your best to avoid touching your nose and mouth as these are prime spots for germs to enter your body.
#5 Practice healthy habits
If you are practicing healthy habits, then you are doing your body and especially your immune system a favor. Make sure to get a good night’s rest every night (7 to 9 hours), eat a balanced diet, getting 30 minutes of exercise every day, and drink a lot of water.
#6 Get vaccinated
The most important and best way to ensure you stay healthy and don’t come down with the flu or any other nasty virus this season is to get your flu shot. If you are interested in other methods rather than the flu shot, then you can ask your doctor about flu antiviral drugs that can also help prevent and treat the flu. To get your flu shot this year with little to no wait by a caring medical team, come see us at Urgentology or come in to talk to one of our doctors about other options such as antiviral drugs.
If you feel like you are coming down with a cold or flu, the first thing you should do is get to a doctor in Arlington as soon as you can. The quicker you catch and address your virus or bacterial infection, the quicker you will be able to heal yourself of it.
For convenient hours, a friendly environment, and a caring and knowledgeable staff, come see us at our Urgent Care in Arlington. While walk-ins are welcome, feel free to call us for any questions or appointments.
Important: If you have a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Room. Information in this site is not intended to be used as a diagnosis for your symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention or visit Urgentology Care.