What You Can Do to Prevent the Flu This Season
There are holidays to prepare for, feasts to cook, shopping to get done, end of year deadlines at work – it is a busy time of year. Unfortunately, this is also the time when the flu rears its ugly head. Between now and spring, colds and the flu spread like wildfire across the country. Fortunately, you can prepare for the worst and reduce your flu risk this season.
- Get the shot
First things first, get the flu vaccine. Although flu vaccine effectiveness varies from season to season, it definitely lessens the severity of the flu if you do catch it. For the elderly and for pregnant women, it means fewer complications and hospitalizations.
- Get plenty of rest
Although this is a busy season, you must schedule time for yourself and get plenty of rest. Getting good quality sleep can keep your immune system at its best. If you happen to catch the flu, do yourself a favor – rest and stay hydrated.
- Wash your hands regularly
Maintaining good hygiene before getting sick is imperative to keeping yourself and those around you free from any illness. Keep in mind that washing your hands when you are sick is just as important. Carry hand sanitizer with you at all times so you can keep your hands germ free when you don’t have access to soap and water.
- Drink plenty of fluids
Allowing yourself to become dehydrated will cause additional stress on your body, in turn, weakening your immune system. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water and herbal teas instead of sodas and diuretics like coffee.
- Stock up on supplies
Even if you maintain good hygiene, others may not. You never know who is sick around you, so you have to assume the flu is everywhere. In public places, the flu can spread like wildfire. If you do succumb to this illness, have these remedies on hand:
- Fever-reducers (ibuprofen, aspirin)
- Saline drops for the nose
- Cold and sinus medications
- Cough drops
- Antiviral treatments (that may require a doctor’s prescription)
- Thermometer
- Tissues
- Humidifier (to help clear mucus from your sinuses)
Now’s the time to prepare your family for the cold and flu season and take preventative measures to avoid getting sick.
Whether you’re looking to get the flu vaccine or you need medical attention, we can help. At Sand Canyon Urgent Care, our staff will provide treatment for common family illnesses and injuries. For minor to moderate injuries and medical issues, visit or call us today for more information about our Irvine and Stanton centers.