As autumn arrives, winter approaches and temperatures fluctuate, viruses that cause colds and influenza become more widespread around the world, making this period an annual challenge for maintaining good health.
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Preventing infection requires taking proactive steps to support immune health and reduce the chances of viruses spreading at home and in the workplace. Early preparation can also help ease symptoms and speed recovery if an infection occurs.
Ways to prevent colds and flu and support immunity
Here are some of the key recommended preventive measures, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
1. Get the annual flu vaccine
Getting vaccinated annually is considered the most important and effective step in preventing influenza and its serious complications.
The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that help protect the body against the virus strains circulating during the season. Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older to help reduce the risk of infection, complications and hospitalization.
2. Wash your hands regularly
Washing your hands properly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds eliminates most viruses and germs on the hands.
Be sure to wash your hands before eating, after using the bathroom, and after sneezing or coughing. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
3. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
Respiratory viruses can spread when contaminated hands come into contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or mouth.
Avoiding touching these areas with unwashed hands is an important defense against viruses entering the body, especially since viruses can remain on surfaces for several hours and may be transferred to the body when the eyes, nose or mouth are touched.
4. Cover your mouth and nose properly when coughing or sneezing
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, then dispose of it immediately in a trash bin and wash your hands.
If tissues are not available, it is preferable to use the inside of your elbow rather than your hands. This helps limit the spread of virus-containing droplets through the air and prevents germs from being transferred to surfaces and other people through contact.
5. Clean and disinfect surfaces and frequently used items
Viruses can accumulate on frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, phones, remote controls and desks.
Regularly cleaning these surfaces with disinfectants can help eliminate viruses left on them, reducing the likelihood of infection spreading among family members at home, coworkers in the workplace or children in classrooms.
6. Adopt a healthy lifestyle to support immunity
Immune system health and its ability to fight infections are closely linked to daily habits and behaviors.
Getting 7–8 hours of sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engaging in physical activity and drinking enough water can all help support immune function and improve the body’s ability to resist viruses.
7. Stay home when symptoms appear
When symptoms such as fever or coughing appear, it is preferable to stay home and avoid going to work or school.
Keeping your distance from others and limiting direct contact can also reduce the chances of transmitting infection to people at greater risk of complications, such as older adults and people with chronic illnesses, until symptoms improve and subside.
Following these simple preventive measures can help protect you and your family from colds and influenza throughout the season. Making these practices part of your daily routine can help ensure a healthier and safer winter and reduce the risk of unwanted health complications.
Resource: Foochia
