Shoo the Flu: 5 Ways to Keep the Bug from Biting this Winter
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- Published on Monday, 02 September 2013 07:00
One thing as predictable in Massachusetts as the leaves changing and the snow blowing each year is the return of flu season. And it’s almost that time again!
How can you avoid being bitten by the bug this year? Your friends at Fall River Jewish Home in Massachusetts share 5 ways you can shoo the flu:
- We know few people like the idea of getting a shot. But you should receive the flu vaccine anyway. It really doesn’t hurt. And the vaccine is the single, best form of protection against the virus. Especially for older adults and those with a compromised immune system.
- Eat a rainbow of healthy foods. A pumped up immune system helps you fight off the virus if you are exposed. Fruits and vegetables that are dark green, yellow and red are typically rich in Vitamin A, E and C.
- Be careful about public spaces during flu season. Drinking fountains, restrooms, and physician waiting rooms can be risky places. Even shaking hands with someone can increase your risk of catching the bug. Wash your hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer with you. If you touch a doorknob or a telephone that someone with the virus has used before you, soaping up your hands or using an anti-bacterial hand sanitizer can kill the virus before it has time to infect you.
- Catch your Zzzzs. A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to illness and infection.
- This last one is a tough one. In our “go-go-go” society, staying home because you are sick is often frowned upon. It not only helps you to recover quicker, it helps to keep the virus from spreading. If you feel like you can’t completely unplug from work responsibilities for a day to recover, see if you can at least work from home if your role allows for it.
