7 Lifestyle Tips To Stay Healthy During Flu Season

On average, 8% of the country’s population gets infected and develops influenza (flu) symptoms each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While viruses can live year-round, flu activity tends to rise in October and peak between December and February.

This article highlights habits and preventive tips for staying healthy during the flu season.

Preventive Tips

The most effective way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. The vaccine is updated annually to protect against the most common strains. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older get vaccinated, particularly those at higher risk for complications. Flu antibodies take about two weeks to develop, so experts recommend getting vaccinated by the end of October. Keep in mind that vaccination after October can still be beneficial and provide protection during peak flu season.

Consider the following seven lifestyle tips for staying healthy during flu season:

1. Stay informed. Keeping up with flu activity in your area is important, especially during peak season. Staying informed allows you to take extra precautions when needed.
2. Know flu symptoms and act quickly. Watch for flu symptoms like fever, runny nose, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue, diarrhea or vomiting. If you suspect you have the flu, stay home and contact your health care provider.
3. Cover your mouth and nose. Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow and dispose of tissues immediately. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
4. Keep your environment clean. Regularly disinfect high-touch areas like door handles, light switches, remote controls and counters. If using household disinfectants, ensure they are proven to kill viruses.
5. Practice healthy habits that support immune health. When an individual is exposed to the flu, their immune system can fight the virus. There are several ways to boost your immune system and reduce your chances of getting sick. Focus on nutrient-rich foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains), stay hydrated, get seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night and exercise regularly.
6. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If possible, limit your contact with anyone who shows flu-like symptoms.
7. Stay home if you’re sick. Individuals with flu symptoms should stay home until 24 hours after their symptoms improve and their fever ends (100 degrees Fahrenheit or lower) without the use of medication. Not everyone who has the flu will have a fever. If you must go out while sick, wear a mask and maintain distance from others. If you catch the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to treat it, alleviating symptoms and shortening the illness’s duration.

Following these preventive steps can lower your risk of catching the flu and help protect others around you. Taking proactive measures is key to staying healthy throughout flu season and beyond.

Contact your doctor if you have any questions.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional. © 2024 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.