As the winter season draws nearer you may have noticed an increase in the number of people around you coughing and sneezing. Do you know how to avoid getting a cold this season?
It’s no secret that the colder weather brings on the dreaded cold and flu season. This year it appears to have started with a bang. More House Call Doctors are being called out to patients homes to treat symptoms of the viral infection.
While your colleagues, friends and family may be dropping like flies there are some precautions you can take to protect yourself this winter.
Below are some tips on how to avoid getting a cold this season.
1. Get the flu vaccine
The annual influenza vaccine is the best protection against the flu which is available from most chemists and GP’s.
Each year a new vaccine is created based on prominent strains that are predicted for the upcoming flu season.
While there are some myths surrounding the flu vaccine, namely that it can give you the flu, they are often unfounded. The flu vaccine in Australia does not contain any live viruses, however it can mimic some symptoms of the flu.
2. Wash your hands
A cold and the flu are highly contagious viral infections. No matter what your line of work, you should ensure to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly!
Washing your hand regularly is a great tip on how to avoid getting a cold.
Most importantly you should wash your hands before meals and after shaking hands. To properly kill viruses on the skin you need to scrub hard.
At least 20 seconds of hand washing with lathered soap is required. You should pay special attention to the back of your hands and fingers which often get missed.
Hand sanitiser can be used if a sink and soap aren’t handy however to properly kill viruses soap and water is recommended.
3. Keep your distance
Being a highly contagious illness it is important to keep your distance from those who are sick in order to minimise your chances of catching their illness.
Those with the flu are typically contagious for about one to four days, however some may be contagious one day before their symptoms and can last for up to two weeks.
On that note, if you are sick it is best to stay home and rest instead of potentially making the whole office sick.
4. Keep a balanced diet and exercise
The right balance of nutritious food and exercise works wonders to help boost your immune system.
A diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low in saturated fats is an important factor in a healthy immune system.
5. Get adequate sleep
Adults should be getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep a night. This is integral to healthy living and assisting your immune system to fight off a cold or the flu.
If you have trouble sleeping try avoiding screens before bed, creating a schedule and ensure your bedroom is a peaceful environment.
House Call Doctor understands that it is not always possible to avoid getting a cold. If you are sick after hours and it can’t wait call House Call Doctor on 13 55 66. You can also book online, or download our free app.
