Flu season is always a time where it is tough to avoid getting sick. However, there are several things that you can do to prepare for the flu season. Here is some information for you to help you prepare for the flu season.
When Does Flu Season Happen?
As the name implies, the flu season does not run year-round. Of course, you can catch the flu at any point in the year, but this is not the same as the real flu season. In the United States, flu season takes place in the fall as well as in the winter. According to information from the CDC, US flu activity reaches its peak starting in December and running through February. However, this peak of flu activity can extend much later, even as late in the year as May.
Care For Yourself as Well as Possible
This is a great way to prepare for the flu season. A balanced diet, exercise, and sufficient sleep are just a few things that help you stay healthy in the flu season. Making sure you are hydrated is another part of preparing for the flu season, too. Doing your best to relax every single day and getting the necessary vitamins is also a good way to avoid getting the flu.
Wash Your Hands Regularly
It is important to wash your hands in order to remain healthy. It does help prevent all sorts of sicknesses, such as the flu. Get your hands wet, lather, scrub vigorously for 20 seconds, then rinse off your hands and dry them. You can make sure you wash your hands for a full 20 seconds in many ways, including humming the "Happy Birthday" song.
Clean Off Surfaces
Another way to prepare for the flu season is to clean all surfaces. You should clean hard surfaces even more thoroughly since viruses and germs tend to thrive on such surfaces. Any healthcare worker will tell you how important this step is to ensure you stay healthy. You should also utilize products that contain approved disinfectants. You should note that the following are some approved disinfectants:
- Bleach
- Alcohol
- Hydrogen Peroxide
You should clean any frequently touched surfaces even more thoroughly.
Get a Flu Shot
Getting a flu shot is one crucial way to prepare for the flu season. The flu shot helps protect you and others from the flu. The ideal time to get the flu vaccine is late September or October. It also specifically protects people at high risk of getting sick from the flu, such as the elderly and children.
There are many ways that you can prepare for the flu season. Getting the flu vaccine, cleaning surfaces, and regularly washing your hands are some things you can do to prepare for the flu season. A balanced diet and getting enough sleep also helps you stay healthy, including during the flu season. It is also important to understand that the flu changes every year, so the flu vaccine changes every year as a result.