As flu season approaches, it’s more important than ever to take precautions to protect yourself and those around you. Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that can lead to mild to severe illness, and in some cases, hospitalization. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting sick and spreading the virus to others. Here are some key flu prevention tips to keep in mind this season:
1. Get a flu shot.
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from the flu is to get an annual flu shot. The flu vaccine helps your immune system develop antibodies to fight off the influenza viruses. Each year, the flu vaccine is updated to protect against the most common strains circulating at that time. While it doesn’t guarantee you won’t get the flu, the vaccine can greatly reduce the severity and duration of illness if you do catch it.
According to Lakes Regional Family Medicine physician Mara Groom, DO, vaccination is especially important for high-risk groups, including young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. She encourages getting your flu shot early in the season, as it takes about two weeks for the body to build immunity.
2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Influenza spreads through respiratory droplets that can be transmitted when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. To lower your risk, try to maintain a safe distance from people who are visibly ill. If someone in your household or workplace is sick, limit direct interactions and avoid sharing personal items like utensils, cups, and towels. Practicing social distancing can be particularly helpful in crowded places like public transportation, schools, and offices, where germs spread easily.
3. Frequently wash your hands or use alcohol-based hand rub.
Handwashing is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching potentially contaminated surfaces like doorknobs and phones. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds and make sure to get in between fingers and the top of the hand. If soap and water aren’t available or if hands are not visibly soiled, use an alcohol-based hand rub that contains at least 60% alcohol. Proper hand hygiene can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick.
4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Your eyes, nose, and mouth are entry points for viruses, including the flu. Since your hands encounter many surfaces throughout the day, they can pick up germs that are then transferred when you touch your face. Make a conscious effort to avoid touching your face, especially when you’re in public or after being in contact with high-touch surfaces. This simple habit can prevent the flu virus from entering your body.
5. Practice good hygiene and other healthy habits.
Maintaining overall good hygiene and a healthy lifestyle are essential for preventing illness. Keep your living and work environments clean by regularly disinfecting surfaces, especially those that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, cell phones, handrails, and countertops. Additionally, a healthy immune system can help your body fight off infections. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, managing your stress, and exercising regularly to keep your immune system strong.
6. Stay home when you are sick.
If you start to feel flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue, it’s best to stay home and rest. Going to work or school while sick increases the risk of passing the flu to others. Staying home allows your body to recover and prevents the virus from spreading. Most people recover from the flu in about a week, but it’s important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen.
7. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
When you cough or sneeze, respiratory droplets containing the flu virus can spread to others around you. To prevent this, always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward. If you don’t have a tissue handy, using your elbow is a good alternative to avoid contaminating your hands.
By following these simple flu prevention tips, you can help protect yourself and those around you from the flu. Staying informed and taking proactive steps is key to keeping your community healthy during flu season.
