It’s flu season once again, and everyone needs to be ready. The flu is a contagious disease that affects your respiratory system and can make you very sick. It’s essential to take action before you get infected because most people don’t realize they have the flu until they’re already getting sick. Here are a few ways to protect yourself and others this flu season.
Get a Flu Shot
The most effective way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot. The vaccine will help protect you from the flu and reduce your risk of serious complications.
You can get a flu shot for free from your local pharmacy. Flu shots are recommended for everyone six months old and older, including pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or weakened immune systems. Getting vaccinated will protect yourself and those around you who can’t get vaccinated against the virus due to age or health reasons. If you do not receive a flu shot this season, it’s essential that you still practice good hygiene habits like hand washing with soap and water after touching surfaces such as door handles at work/school, etc.
Many people may be hesitant to get vaccinated, but vaccines are explicitly created to benefit your immune system and build up your protection against disease. Biopharma researchers utilize tools like artificial intelligence, state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, and the best medical manufacturers like Avantor to create “life-changing treatments for patients around the world.” Vaccines save lives every year and can significantly reduce the likelihood that you will even get sick this flu season.
Take Your Vitamins
If you haven’t already, taking your vitamins is one of the best things you can do for your immune system. While vitamins are not an absolute cure-all and won’t keep you from getting sick, they are essential in building a solid defense against illness.
There are many different types of vitamins on the market today, with their benefits and drawbacks. While there isn’t one specific vitamin that’s going to be able to protect you from all illnesses, some are more effective at doing so than others. Vitamin C helps boost your resistance to infection; Vitamin D boosts immunity by increasing white blood cell count, and Vitamin E supports healthy cell membranes in the body—all aspects that play a part in keeping us well! You can find these and other vitamins at most health food stores or local grocery stores.
Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands is one of the best ways to reduce the spread of germs.
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you don’t have access to water.
- Always wash your hands before eating or preparing food, after using the bathroom or changing a diaper, before and after providing medical care (even if you’re wearing gloves), after handling raw meat or fish, after touching animals—and especially if they appear sick—and before touching someone who is ill.
- Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer to use in public areas where you cannot easily wash your hands. For example, after getting off a train or public bus, using a public machine like an ATM, or touching any other frequently touched thing like a door handle. Be careful not to touch your face before washing your hands or using sanitizer.
Hydrate and Get Enough Sleep
The immune system is complex, and your body’s ability to fight off infection can be affected by many things. For example, you may be more susceptible to colds if you’re under stress or not getting enough sleep. Getting enough sleep and staying hydrated is essential for boosting your immune system.
- Drink lots of water: Drinking plenty of water will help keep mucous membranes moist and lubricated so they can do their job correctly. It’s also good for keeping your kidneys healthy. Those organs play an essential role in filtering out toxins from your blood before they reach other parts of the body, including the respiratory tract, where they might trigger coughs and sneezes.
- Get at least seven hours of sleep per night: Getting enough rest helps ensure that all bodily systems stay healthy, but it has a powerful effect on our immune responses because that’s when we need them most.
The best way to keep yourself healthy this season is to ensure you have the best immune system possible. This can be achieved through simple habits like washing your hands, getting a flu shot, and taking vitamins. By following these tips, you can ensure your immune system is robust and prepared for the flu. Remember, these are only some ways to stay healthy; talk to your doctor to learn more ways to boost your immune system this flu season.