Coughing, sneezing, and stuffiness – oh my! The cooler months are upon us, and cold and flu season is officially here. ‘Tis the season of passing germs and sharing sicknesses if we aren’t careful. We have all been inundated with reminders about proper hygiene and infection prevention thanks to COVID, but there may be a few things we haven’t thought of or could use a reminder or two about! Let’s take a look at a few simple ways to keep yourself, and others, healthy.
5 Ways to Gear Up Against Germs
- Wash with Purpose. Did you know your hands touch over 100 different germ hot spots each day? Many of us wash our hands, but approximately 58% don’t wash correctly or effectively. Remember to wash for at least 20 seconds, use soap and water, and minimize the number of times you touch bathroom surfaces, like sink handles, countertops, and door handles. If you are unable to wash your hands, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Don’t Touch Your Face. On average, people touch their face at least 20 times per hour. Given that our hands are a hot spot for germs, to help prevent infections, keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Boost Your Immunity. There are several things you can do to help strengthen your immune system – eat a well-balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and get enough sleep. It’s also important to stay active and manage stress levels in a healthy way. Having trouble with any of these areas? Consider talking with your Functional Pathways Therapy Team to learn more!
- Vaccines and Flu Shots. Give your immune system a boost by getting your flu shot every year. While it isn’t 100% effective, it can help you from getting infected, and it can also lessen the symptoms should you get sick. In addition, ask your doctor and make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations.
- Stay Home! If you do happen to get sick, stay home. Keep your germs to yourself and prevent spreading them to others. Rest up and wait until you feel better to return to the office or socialize. Often times, it’s when we try and “tough it out” or tell ourselves it’s “just a cold” that we end up spreading illness and getting others sick.