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7 Lifestyle tips to stay healthy during FLU season
Approximately 1 billion people contract influenza (flu) every year, according to the World Health Organization. While viruses can live year-round, flu activity tends to rise in October and peak between December and February.
This article highlights habits and preventive tips for staying healthy during the flu season.
Preventative Tips
The most effective way to prevent the flu is a yearly vaccination. The flu vaccine is updated annually to protect against the most common strains. The NHS recommends that babies over 6 months of age, children, pregnant women, adults over 65 and anyone with a disease that lowers their immunity get vaccinated. Flu antibodies take about two weeks to develop, so experts recommend getting vaccinated by the end of October. Keep in mind that vaccination after October can still be beneficial and provide protection during peak flu season.
Consider these additional seven lifestyle tips for staying healthy during flu season:
1. Stay Informed. Keeping up with the flu activity in your area is important, especially during peak season. Staying informed allows you to take extra precautions when needed. The UK Health Security Agency publishes important information on the government website.
2. Know flu symptoms and act quickly. Watch for flu symptoms like fever, runny nose, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue, diarrhoea or vomiting. If you suspect you have the flu, stay home and contact your health care provider.
3. Cover your mouth and nose. Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow and dispose of tissues immediately. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol.
4. Keep your environment clean. Regularly disinfect high touch areas like door handles. Light switches, remote controls and counters. If using household disinfectants, ensure they are proven to kill viruses.
5. Practise healthy habits that support immune health. When an individual is exposed to the flu, their immune system can fight the virus. There are several ways to boost your immune system and reduce your chances of getting ill. Focus on nutrient rich foods (eg fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains) Stay hydrated, get seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night and exercise regularly.
6. Avoid close contact with people who are ill. If possible, limit your contact with anyone who shows flu like symptoms.
7. Stay home of you’re ill. Individuals with flu symptoms should stay home until 24 hours after their symptoms improve and their fever ends (37.5 degrees Celsius or lower) without the use of medication. Not everyone who has the flu will have a fever. If you must go out while unwell, wear a mask and maintain distance from others.
These precautions can lower your risk of catching the flu and help protect others around you. Preventive measures are key to staying healthy throughout flu season and beyond.
Contact your doctor if you have any questions.
