There are several steps you can take to help prevent catching the flu and reduce the spread of viruses that cause it. And, it’s easier than you think! Keep reading for some great tips and advice on how to keep all those virus germs at bay.
What To Do
- Wash your hands! Cold and flu viruses may be spread by indirect contact. This means that, if someone sneezes onto their hand and then touches a doorknob, the next person who touches that door handle will wind up picking up those virus particles on their hands, too. Washing your hands is the best way to prevent getting sick. It is also vital that you are washing for an extended period, many suggest singing for the duration of “The Birthday” or “ABC” song.
- Avoid sick contacts. If you know someone has been battling an illness, stay away for the time being.
- If you are sick, self quarantine. In other words, stay home.
- Do the elbow cough. Since viruses cling to your bare hands, you can reduce the spread of viruses by perfecting the art of the elbow cough. When you cough, simply cover your face with your entire elbow. It’s also an easy technique to teach kids.
- Disinfect common surfaces. Viruses that cause colds and flu can survive on common surfaces for up to 72 hours. Don’t forget to wipe down the phone receivers, doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.
- Drink water! Water can help strengthen your immune system, keeping the flu at bay. And if you do get sick, water flushes your system, rehydrates you, and washes out the toxins. An adult should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids each day. If the color of your urine is close to clear, then you are getting enough. If it’s deep yellow, drink more water.
Key Symptoms Include:
1. Fever of above 100.4 F/ 38 C
2. Cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
These symptoms ALONE are not enough to determine if one might have contracted COVID-19 (coronavirus). Other VERY important things to factor in:
1. Have you traveled internationally within 14 days of your symptoms onset?
2. Have you been in close contact with a COVID-19 lab confirmed diagnosed individual within 14 days of your symptoms onset?
If you answered “yes” to these identifiers, self quarantine and the contact your doctor by phone. PLEASE NOTE: It is important to not come into the office on your own, as we do not want to contribute to the spreading of COVID-19.