Nobody wants to become sick with the flu. It’s far worse than a common cold and will likely make you feel fatigued, worn out, and unwell for up to a week or longer. Furthermore, it has the potential to be lethal, particularly for those in vulnerable demographics such as the elderly in assisted living or hospice in Oakland County. In addition, it’s also highly contagious.
Do not worry. There are proven methods that can protect you and your loved ones from Influenza. In this article, we’ll discuss easy and practical cold/flu prevention tips to keep you healthy this season.
Stay Away From Crowds & Unnecessary Travel
When traveling, stay away from crowds, particularly on flights. Airplanes are among the likeliest places for acquiring a cold or flu from someone afflicted. As much as possible, stay away from big groups of people. If you’re in a tight spot, keep a safe distance of at least six feet.
Don’t Put Your Hands On Your Face
In light of COVID, this advice is twice as important now. The virus can enter your body quickly through the eyes, nose, and mouth. Even accidentally touching your face can speed up the process. Hence, avoid touching your face to the extent possible.
Drink A Lot Of Water
Staying hydrated, particularly with hot tea or tap water, will help the body fight pathogens more effectively. Keep in mind that drinking overly caffeinated beverages will dehydrate you.
For women, 2.7 liters of water (91 ounces) and for men, 3.7 liters (125 ounces) per day is sufficient. However, only 80% of this consumption should come from water and other liquids, with the remaining 20% coming from meals. Hospices in Oakland County provide customized diet meals well-balanced in nutrition and necessary Electrolytes.
Exercise Regularly
Moderate exercise stimulates the immune system and may lessen the chances of catching a virus. A 20-30 minute fitness routine five days a week is the way to go. In addition, exercise frequently decreases the risk of several chronic ailments, including cardiovascular, metabolic, and respiratory illnesses.
Facilities for assisted living in Bloomfield Hills address this issue by employing nutritionists and exercise experts to provide residents with proper nutrition.
Get a Flu Vaccination
Older adults are more vulnerable to the flu’s potentially fatal consequences. In addition, senior citizens are more likely to be admitted to the hospital due to flu complications. Ask your doctor to see if the immunization might exacerbate any medical conditions.
Get Enough Sleep
According to reliable studies, individuals who sleep less than seven hours a day are three times more likely to come down with the flu than those who get at least eight. Regularly getting quality sleep increases your immune system (among other things), allowing your body to fight off colds, the flu, and other diseases.
Vaccinate Yourself Against Pneumonia
The flu can progress to pneumonia, which can be fatal for seniors. This vaccine protects against specific types of bacterial pneumonia. Inquire about pneumococcal vaccination from your physician.
Put On A Mask
Wearing a mask can help prevent contracting someone else’s cold or flu, as well as transmitting the virus. Masks must fit tightly over the nose and under the chin.
Instead of using a balaclava, scarf, kerchief, ski mask, or face shield on its own, the CDC suggests two-layer masks or doubled gaiters. Surgical N95 masks, according to the CDC, should only be used by healthcare workers.
Keep Your Environment Clean
ِِِِِِِِِِِِِِِِِِDoorknobs, light switches, and other household items should be wiped down. They’re often touched by multiple folks and can be a source for virus transmission.
Sanitize your mobile gadgets as well. Regularly clean them with disinfectant wipes or rubbing alcohol, but avoid getting the electronics wet.
Don’t Interact
Keep a safe distance from flu-ridden individuals to protect your health. Restrict your interactions, avoid unnecessary touching such as shaking hands or embracing and stay away from everything they’ve touched.
Keep Your Distance
You must stay at home if you have the flu to protect others. Healthy people shouldn’t have to interact with individuals sick with the flu.
Increase Your Vitamin C Intake
According to the National Institutes of Health, more vitamin C can decrease the intensity or shorten the length of disease, even if it won’t keep you from getting sick. Vitamin C is best obtained from a diet, such as citrus fruits. In addition, 200 mg pills can be beneficial.
Wash Hands & Utilize Hand Sanitizer
You can kill viruses by using soap and water. Scrubbing vigorously for 20 seconds is a good rule of thumb. The water doesn’t have to be hot (scrubbing will suffice & do the job). If soap and water are unavailable, sanitize your hands with an alcohol-based product.
Even If It’s Freezing Outside, Get Some Fresh Air
Because we’re inside, sharing the same air, the disease spreads more quickly in the winter. Opening a window to allow some fresh air or taking a short stroll outside will help clean up the lungs. If that isn’t possible, an air filter is a wise purchase. Some models are made to eliminate allergies, inactivate microorganisms, and destroy viruses.
Symptoms
Keep an eye out for symptoms if you’ve been exposed to a cold or flu. If you’re unwell, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. According to the CDC, there are various symptoms indicating you should seek medical attention:
- Aches & pains, headaches, chills & exhaustion
- Breathing issues or shortness of breath
- Not urinating
- Dizziness, disorientation, or difficulty waking up for an extended period
- Muscle aches & pains
- Severe shakiness or unpredictability
- Diarrhea & vomiting
If You Get Sick, Here’s What You Should Do
The flu lasts three to seven days in healthy adults, but it can last longer in seniors due to weakened immune systems. If you feel sick, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor, even if you’re not sure it’s the flu; they can assist with the diagnosis. Here are some things to do if you believe you’re unwell:
- Drink plenty of water — The extra liquid can help thin mucus, making it easier to expel
- Consume chicken soup – This is a safe and effective home treatment. Hot soup opens nasal passages, the broth calms the throat, and the soup aids infection-fighting white blood cells in their work
- Obtain an antiviral medication prescription – You should seek antiviral medications as soon as possible to render the flu milder and prevent catastrophic consequences, such as pneumonia
- At a 45-degree angle, rest or sleep. – Lying flat causes mucus to collect in the nasal canals, potentially leading to illness. Resting or sleeping at an angle decreases inflammation and helps to avoid it
- Utilize a humidifier if you have a persistent sore throat or a cough
If you or a loved one are currently in assisted living in Bloomfield Hills, discuss implementing these practical tips with the team of caregivers at the facility to ensure a healthier winter season.
