Cold & Flu Season

As we move into the middle of winter, we need a sensible approach to ensure that we remain safe and healthy at work and in our homes. Infections, especially respiratory or lung infections tend to be more common in winter, as we close windows and doors to keep the cold out, resulting in poor ventilation and promotion of their spread. This year we have an extra issue to think about – COVID-19, caused by the coronavirus.

In order to stay healthy, we should always ensure good personal hygiene, like covering our mouths when coughing and washing our hands, to prevent the spread of infection. However, because coronavirus is spread much more easily, we need to take extra care. We need to ensure a safe physical distance from other people, avoid public places and even small groups of people, wear a mask whenever we come into contact with other people, and avoid crowded public transport, where commuters sit or stand close together and where there is often poor ventilation.

Many people get coughs, colds, and sore throats, sometimes with a fever, each winter, but now with coronavirus around, we need to stay at home if we are sick, as COVID also presents with these symptoms. This will prevent the possible spread of coronavirus to others.

Did you know that the common cold accounts for up to three years of the average person’s life? The reasons behind this rather depressing statistic are not easy to pinpoint, and in contrast to what many believe, have nothing to do with the chill in the air.

And while it is the most common illness, it does not occur as a result of wet hair, stress, a change in temperature, cold feet, or bad weather. The fact of the matter is that when the weather forecast is at a low, our immune systems are weakened making us more susceptible to colds.

Follow these tips and hints and you can continue to get more out life despite the weather forecast.

Handy hands

  • Hands are described as a germ factory for a reason, so be sure to wash your hands several times throughout the day using a sanitizer.
  • While warm soap and water also work, make sure you do not rush the process and wash your hands for at least 20-seconds to kill all germs.
  • Use paper towel to dry your hands and close the tap so that you do not come into contact with germs once again after washing them.
  • Keep your hands away from your nose and mouth wherever possible so that they do not attract additional germs. And if you need to sneeze, try to do so in the crook of your arm so that the germs on your hands do not come into contact with your nose.
  • Try and eat with a knife and fork so that germs are not transferred from your hand to your food.

Surface issues

  • Colds and flu are spread by viruses which can easily spread from surface to person and person to person. For this reason, it is a good idea to carry an alcohol-based cleanser with you to sterilise any surfaces you believe to be putting your health at risk.
  • Antiseptic wipes should also be used to cleanse desktops and phones regularly.
  • Always dispose of used tissues as they are the ultimate germ carriers.

Build immunity

  • Exercise to build your immunity. Research suggests that by working out and making your heart pump a little faster you strengthen your immune system.
  • If you are already sick, the general rule of thumb is that you can continue to do so if the symptoms are experienced above the neck, such as stuffy noses and sore throats. If, however, you have a temperature and are experiencing aches and pains in your body you should rest and give the gym a skip.
  • Do not worry, be happy. It’s a well-known fact that a positive attitude can boost your immune system.

Eat and sleep

  • Get at least eight to ten hours sleep a night to prevent your immune system from weakening and making you more susceptible to colds and flu.
  • Eating large quantities of fresh fruit and vegetables supports your immune system so make sure your diet is designed to protect you
  • Think before you dip and be wary of sharing chip dips with friends as they may harbour unwanted germs.

Steer clear

  • While it may seem perfectly obvious, stay away from people displaying symptoms such as coughing and sneezing.

Do not let colds and flu stop you this winter.

Source:
https://www.health24.com/Medical/Flu/Preventing-flu/15-tips-to-stay-healthy-in-winter-20120721