If there’s one thing that is predictable about cold and flu season – it’s the utter unpredictability. In some years, compared to past years, it peaks later but starts earlier. Around early October is when flu season usually begins. About midwinter, it peaks. Come March, it pretty much wraps up. Is there a way to stay healthy during flu season?
Flu Season’s Unpredictability
Several years ago, September marked an early start to flu season. Unfortunately, it was March before it peaked. What that meant for people who ignored getting a flu vaccine was, although they thought they were free and clear of any danger, late in the season, they surprisingly got the flu. Anyone and everyone are at risk for the flu, but when it comes to older adults, there are particular risks. From what starts as the flu, complications can arise including but are not limited to, pneumonia, bronchitis, and more.
Take Vitamin C to Boost Immunity
You can reduce cold and flu symptoms by approximately 85%, by boosting your immunity with the powerful antioxidant found in vitamin C. Whether you go with the delicious chewable tablet or just swallow the non-chewable brand with your other meds and/or supplements, just get it in your system!
Try to Stay Out of Crowds
The more people present in an enclosed area, the more germs there are. You may already be wearing a facemask if you’re taking COVID-19 precautions, but that isn’t foolproof where your health is concerned (unless it’s an N-95 mask or something similar). It does help you to not infect others, however.
Keep Your Hands at Your Sides, Not Your Face
You can spread germs to your mucous membranes and respiratory system by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. If you have an itch, wash your hands or use a tissue before scratching.
Handwashing Is Huge
If the coronavirus has taught us anything, it’s that hand washing is absolutely crucial where our health is concerned. Following the flu vaccine, the next best thing is good hand hygiene for the prevention of the flu. With warm soap and water, several times a day, wash your hands. Make sure you scrub between your fingers and on both sides of your hands.
On surfaces like countertops, handrails, doorknobs, etc., germs can live for up to two hours. Unless the surface was just disinfected, be sure to wash your hands after touching anything. Everywhere you go, carry alcohol-based hand sanitizer just in case you can’t get to a sink.
Get the Shot!
For your body to develop full immunity after the shot, it takes approximately two weeks. Early in the season, you should get your flu vaccine, according to the CDC. You will still be far better protected against the flu even if the current vaccine isn’t an exact match.
Experience a Healthy Environment at Blue Ridge
At Blue Ridge, we promote a healthy mind and a healthy body. Through exercise programs, three nutritious meals a day, safe socialization, and much more, your loved one can enjoy all the perks and amenities of senior living community living.
Contact us today if you’d like to find out more or, better yet, schedule a tour.
