Avoid Catching A Cold This Winter With These Easy Tips

Flu season is upon us, and it’s time to start taking the necessary precautions for our health. This year may be a little more complicated than most, so it is best to try to stay healthy at all times.

Prevention is better than cure, even when it comes to the flu virus. We should all practice healthy habits to avoid getting influenza as the virus can result in more severe issues than we let off.

There are many ways to protect yourself from contracting the virus this winter, beyond getting a flu shot. Have a look at our list of precautions to take to stay healthy this flu season.

Avoid Large Crowds

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We’ve all had some practice with this tip for the past couple of months due to the coronavirus pandemic. Now it is more vital than ever to keep up the social distancing to avoid contracting and spreading viruses.

Doctors recommend this habit highly because viruses spread faster in crowds and confined spaces. It may be tempting to go to every single holiday party since being confined for so long, but it’s not worth it.

Get A Flu Shot

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The flu vaccination protects your body from most flu virus strains, and this is extremely helpful. If you have not been able to get a flu shot yet, you can still get one now before it is the peak of the flu season.

Take The Day Off

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Sick leave and leave days are there for a reason, and they are so important during the flu season. If you are feeling unwell, try to take the day off if you can, or negotiate a day to work from home if you can.

A single day of rest can help your recovery significantly. This tip can save you from getting worse and being bedridden for days with terrible flu.

Don’t Touch Your Face

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Again, we have practiced this enough for the coronavirus, and we should practice it now. Avoid touching your face as you probably touch contaminated surfaces the entire day and get sick quickly.

Get Some Vitamin D

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Research shows that the level of vitamin D in your body can affect your immune system. Most people are not likely to get a lot of time outside in winter due to the weather, thus lowering vitamin D levels.

You can supplement your vitamin D intake by eating foods such as salmon, mushrooms, and egg yolk. Incorporating these vitamin D rich foods in your diet during winter can help you combat a flu contraction.

Get Enough Sleep

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Sleep is also a great contributor to a healthy immune system and is generally good for your wellbeing. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7 - 9 hours of sleep for adults.

Eat Produce And Probiotics

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A healthy immune system requires a nutritious diet, and there are specific foods that can be of assistance. Everybody knows that eating lots of fruits and vegetables is good for you, so eat plenty of them.

You can find probiotics in foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut, and these help your gut health. Try to keep a healthy and balanced diet that will support your health instead of worsening it.

Avoid High Levels Of Stress

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Studies show that people who suffer from psychological stress may be less reactive to the flu vaccine. Your general wellbeing can also be affected by stress, so try to find ways to relax and take care of yourself this season.

Avoid Touching People Who Are Sick

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If you care for a partner, child, or parent who is sick, try to wear gloves and a mask near them. If you do not have access to disposable gloves and masks, you should wash your hands often during this time.

Encourage your loved ones to dispose of their used tissues when they are sick as well. Touching any of these contaminated objects and surfaces can put you at risk of getting the flu virus.

Keep The Windows Closed

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Although you may think that open windows help clear out contaminated air, this action is not that helpful. A study shows that cold air can help the virus live while it passes through people, so keep warm.