Seasonal flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness and can sometimes lead to complications that result in hospitalisation or even death. Each year, seasonal flu affects millions of people worldwide, and the best way to protect yourself is by getting vaccinated. However, there are also other precautions you can take to safeguard yourself against the flu.
Tips To Safeguard Yourself Against Seasonal Flu
In this article, we will discuss some tips to help you stay healthy during flu season.
1. Get vaccinated
The flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself from the seasonal flu. It is recommended that everyone older than the age of six months get vaccinated every year, especially those who are at higher risk of flu complications, such as young children, older adults, and people with certain health conditions. The flu vaccine is usually available in the fall, and it takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop immunity.
2. Wash your hands frequently
Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs. You should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or touching your face. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser that contains at least 60% alcohol.
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3. Avoid close contact with sick people
The flu virus spreads through droplets when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk. You should avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are sick to prevent spreading the virus to others. If you have to be around someone who is sick, wear a face mask to help protect yourself.
4. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing can help prevent the spread of germs. Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth, and then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow instead of your hands.
5. Clean and disinfect surfaces regularly
The flu virus can live on surfaces for up to 24 hours. You should clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops to help prevent the spread of germs. Use a disinfectant that is effective against the flu virus, and follow the instructions on the label.
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6. Stay home if you are sick
If you have flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, or fatigue, stay home and avoid contact with others as much as possible. You should also cover your nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing, and wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading the virus to others.
7. Practise good health habits
Maintaining good health habits such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of getting sick.
The seasonal flu can cause serious illness and even death, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Getting vaccinated, washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick people, covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces regularly, staying home if you are sick, and practising good health habits are all effective ways to safeguard yourself against the flu. By taking these precautions, you can reduce your risk of getting sick and help prevent the spread of the flu to others.
