5 Healthy Habits to Protect You Against the Flu

Implement these five healthy habits to help protect you against the flu this season

Flu season is in full swing, and most of us are preparing for the cold winter months ahead. It's easy to forget our basic healthy habits after a carefree summer. Read on to get a refresher on five healthy habits to implement during flu season and in your everyday routine.

1. Avoid Close Contact

The flu virus can live and thrive in almost any environment. Symptoms might not be present immediately, so it's good to keep your distance from people who have been sick or those who have come in close contact with someone who has been ill.

2.  Stay Home if Your Sick

According to the CDC, flu symptoms include:

·      fever or feeling feverish/chills

·      cough

·      sore throat

·      runny or stuffy nose

·      muscle or body aches

·      headaches

·      fatigue (tiredness)

·      some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, staying home and avoiding contact with others is best. This is not only for your well-being but the well-being of people who might have a chronic condition or a weakened immune system.

3.  Cover Your Mouth and Nose

Covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough seems like an intuitive practice. On the other hand, people forget this essential healthy habit regularly. On that note, here is your reminder to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

4.  Wash Your Hands Regularly

Sanitizer doesn't always kill all the harmful germs from your hands. Washing your hands regularly is your best bet at eliminating flu germs and spreading them yourself. This doesn't mean a quick water rinse in the sink. To properly wash your hands to ensure you've cleaned them thoroughly, the CDC has put together these steps:

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap and apply soap.

2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.

4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.

5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

5.  Avoid Touching Your Face

It can be difficult not to touch your face throughout the day, but it's essential to avoid doing so during flu season. Germs can easily attach themselves to your hands, and once they're spread to your face, it's easier for the flu virus to enter your body.  

If you follow these five healthy habits this flu season, you will be on your way to a healthy and carefree fall and winter. Another way to avoid the flu is to receive your yearly flu vaccine. Want to know if the flu vaccine is suitable for you? Read our blog, Should You Get a Flu Shot This Season? We also recommend looking at what other preventative care exams you should complete this year with the Cix Health preventive care feature.