Colds and flu affect the majority of people at some point in their lives. However, there are several tried-and-true methods for lowering the risk of infection. While most cold and flu infections occur in the fall and winter, the viruses that cause these illnesses are present all year.
Many people skip days at work and quality time with their friends and families while fighting a viral infection. Continue reading to learn how to stop being sick so that you can stay healthy and make the most of your time.
1. Maintain a Healthy Way of Life
Keeping your body in good shape aids in the health of the immune system. When you come into contact with germs, you’ll be better able to fend them off. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, having plenty of sleep, and reducing stress will help the body battle infections more effectively.
2. Keep Your Hands Clean
Keeping your hands clean is essential during the cold and flu season. Aerosol droplets transmit colds and flu from coughing and sneezing and from touching surfaces that have been in contact with contaminated people.
When you cross your nose, mouth, or eyes with infected hands, the virus reaches your body. It’s best to wash your hands for at least 10-15 seconds in warm soapy water before eating, particularly after coughing or sneezing. If you don’t have access to water, an alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer gel with at least 60% alcohol content can be used instead.
3. Utensils for drinking and eating should not be exchanged
While this should be self-evident, far too many people still share cups, water bottles, knives, and food. Even if the person you’re sharing with isn’t showing signs of illness, they might transfer germs to you and make you sick. Your friend could be immune to a virus in his or her body, but since you haven’t had it before, it might easily make you ill.
4. Keep yourself hydrated
Drinking enough water each day ensures that the body functions properly. Although eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day is a standard guideline, there isn’t a set amount that should be consumed. Climate, exertion, and other variables would all influence it. If you drink while you are thirsty, you can get around the right amount for most people.
During the day, the urine should be light yellow or transparent, which is another sign. You’re probably not drinking enough if your urine is dark yellow, and you need to urinate once in a while.
5. Surfaces that are in good condition
Cleaning regularly touched surfaces in your workspace and office will help prevent germs from spreading. 1 People seldom consider how many germs might be on their computer keyboard, office phone, or mobile phone, even though these are the things they (and possibly others) touch the most during the day.
The same can be said for your home’s surfaces. Door handles, faucets, and remote controls are often ignored when it comes to cleaning, but you touch these surfaces so often that they can quickly become a source of contamination.
Viruses exist all year, so you can take steps to prepare for cold and flu season and lower the risk of getting sick. Maintaining good health, washing your hands with soap or by using a Hand Sanitizer, and remaining hydrated are all excellent ways to protect yourself.