Protect Yourself From Getting the Flu
The news is filled with reports of the coronavirus. While it’s natural to panic and fear the worst, it’s important to remember to stay calm and take preventative measures. The coronavirus shares similar symptoms to the flu, which can impact you for days and weeks. To prevent catching a cold or any virus, look at these tips.
- Get a seasonal flu shot that helps to protect against different strains of the flu. The flu vaccine cannot make you sick with the flu. The viruses in the vaccine are either killed or weakened and cannot cause infection.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If a tissue isn’t available, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow rather than using your hands.
- Clean your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. Use warm soapy water and wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds. Rinse your hands with water then dry them completely.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick and when you are sick. Avoid shaking hands with other people who may be ill or are carrying a virus. If you are ill, stay home from work. Wait at least 24 hours after your fever subsides before going back to work. This helps to ensure you are no longer contagious.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Try not to use a coworker’s phone, desk, computer, or other tools. Wash your hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer after touching elevator buttons and door handles.
- Eat a healthy and nutritious diet, get plenty of rest, avoid stress, and stay active to help bolster your immune system.
