
Winter brings many things – cozy nights in, crackling fireplaces, and the wonderful June holiday season. Unfortunately, it also brings with it the cold and flu season. These illnesses can be both annoying and debilitating, and they can easily spread from person to person. Staying healthy during this time of year is crucial, especially if you have a weakened immune system, are older, or have underlying health conditions.
How the cold and flu viruses are spread
The cold and flu viruses are highly contagious.
These viruses are typically spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. You can also become infected by touching a surface that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
The most common places where the viruses can be contracted include public areas, offices, schools, and ofcourse at home, if a family member is ill. The viruses can survive on surfaces for several hours, making it easy to contract them by touching an infected surface and then touching your face.
Best Ways to Stay Healthy:
Boosting Your Immune System
The stronger your immune system, the better, especially during cold and flu season.
It helps your body fight off viruses and bacteria that can make you sick.
Eat a healthy diet
A healthy and balanced diet can help boost your immune system. Make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains in your diet.
Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to illnesses. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise can help boost your immune system by increasing blood flow and promoting the production of antibodies. Just be careful not to overdo exercise when you are sick.
Manage stress
High levels of stress can weaken your immune system. Try to manage your stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
Get enough vitamin D
Vitamin D is important for a healthy immune system. You can get vitamin D through sun exposure or by taking supplements.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of getting sick.
Tips for Preventing Cold and Flu
Prevention is key when it comes to staying healthy during cold and flu season
Wash your hands frequently and correctly
Regular handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses. Make sure to use soap and warm water and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
Use hand sanitiser
Hand sanitiser can also help kill germs and prevent the spread of viruses. Make sure to use a sanitiser with at least 70% alcohol.
Avoid touching your face
Cold and flu viruses can enter your body through your eyes, nose, or mouth. Try to avoid touching your face, especially if you haven’t washed your hands.
Avoid close contact with sick people
If someone around you is sick, try to avoid close contact with them to prevent the spread of the virus.
Cover your mouth and nose
When coughing or sneezing, make sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of germs.
Stay home if you’re sick
If you’re sick, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others.

What to Do If You Get Sick
Despite your best efforts to prevent cold and flu, you may still get sick. If you do, it’s important to take steps to manage your symptoms and prevent the spread of the virus to others.
Stay home
If you’re sick, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others. Rest and take care of yourself.
Manage your symptoms
Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms such as fever, cough, and congestion. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label.
Drink plenty of fluids
Staying hydrated can help loosen mucus and relieve congestion. Dehydration will only make you feel worse.
See your doctor
If your symptoms are severe or if you have underlying health conditions, it’s important to see your doctor sooner, rather than later. They can prescribe antiviral medications that can help reduce the severity and duration of your illness.
It’s important to note that some people are more susceptible to complications from cold and flu, such as older adults, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions.
If you’re in one of these groups, it’s especially important to see your doctor, as soon as possible, when you get sick.
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