The flu is the worst thing about the changing seasons. How will you smell your delicious pumpkin spice coffee with a stuffy nose? The flu virus is especially bad for the elderly, whose immune systems are not what they were. Fortunately, you can greatly lower your risk of getting the flu virus if you do preventative measures. This article will give you great tips on how to avoid catching the flu by taking some simple precautions.
Get a Flu Shot
Though a flu shot doesn’t mean you won’t get the virus, you will have less of a chance. Additionally, flu shots will help cut down on the spread of the virus if you do get it. Get the flu shot early in the season so that you are protected and safe for the rest of it.
Wash Your Hands
A lot of flu prevention methods are general health tips as well. Wash your hands often. Be sure to wash every time you come in from outside or touch any surface in public. Wash with warm water and lots of antibacterial soap.
Also keep a bottle of alcohol sanitizer in your car, on the table at the entrance in your house, and in your bag. Clean your hands with sanitizer when you don’t have access to water and soap.
Don’t Touch Your Face
Touching your face spreads germs and bacteria. Even when you’re trying to keep your hands clean, you can unconsciously touch a dirty surface. Bringing those germs close to your nose and mouth can cause the flu to spread.
Avoid Crowds
Avoid going out to places where there are likely to be throngs of people packed closely together, like concerts and popular restaurants. Avoid going grocery shopping on weekend evenings when everyone will have had the same idea.
Increase Your Intake of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a great help when staving off and fighting infections. Increase your intake by either taking it in tablet form or eating lots of citrus fruits, like oranges and berries. Studies show that vitamin C can help reduce flu symptoms by 85%, and it tastes good too!
Enjoy Fall without the Flu
You can enjoy the coming fall and winter season to the max, knowing you are protected. Get your flu shots early, wash your hands often and keep hand sanitizer on your person, avoid touching your face, and avoid crowded places.
Something as simple and innocuous as the flu can become life-threatening if you are immuno-compromised or suffering from other illnesses. The trained caregivers at Visiting Angels are trained to help keep your elderly loved ones healthy at all times during the year. Contact us for in-home care services today.