How to Protect Yourself in the Season of Cold and Flu
Although colds and flus can be caught all year round, such respiratory illnesses are much more common in colder months. These virus’s peak circulation between the months of December and February, so if you feel a little iffy at this time of year, you are not alone. In fact, it is estimated that between 5% and 20% of Americans get the flu each year.
But getting a cold or the flu doesn’t need to be inevitable. There are certain actions you can take to protect yourself from these types of illnesses. In this post, you will learn three of the simplest ways to prevent catching a cold or flu during the winter months.
Get Vaccinated
One of the most effective methods of protection is vaccines. Getting vaccinated not only protects you from severe flu illnesses, but it can also prevent you from being hospitalized. Flu can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, and worse, all of which could require hospitalization, and vaccinations will significantly lower these risks. This is why it is important to stay up-to-date on your vaccines.
Vaccines are not a guaranteed preventative to common colds, but they are highly effective. If you do get the flu after being vaccinated, your illness will likely be much milder and shorter. Vulnerable groups – the elderly, young children, and those with chronic conditions – are most at risk of the flu. Vaccinations are essential for these groups because of the reduced illness severity.
Knowing the updated list of vaccines for fall 2025 would be useful. Flu strains, and those of other illnesses like COVID, change. If you receive the new vaccine each year, you are more protected. However, it is vital that you get vaccinated in the early fall for best winter protection.
Wash Your Hands
Cold and flu viruses spread easily. An infected person’s coughs and sneezes transfer these germs onto surfaces, such as doorknobs and phones. If you then touch these surfaces and touch your face, the virus has a direct path in. Handwashing breaks this chain of transmission. It lifts and rinses germs down the drain, reducing the risk of illness significantly.
It might sound easy, but there is a right way to wash your hands. First, know when to wash your hands. This includes after blowing your nose or coughing, before eating, after using the toilet, and so on. Use warm water and soap. You should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds; this is about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
An alcohol-based hand sanitizer, with at least 60% alcohol, can be used instead, if soap and water aren’t available.
Stay Hydrated
If you have ever been ill and had someone say to “drink plenty of fluids,” take the advice to heart. Staying hydrated is vital. This supports core immune system functions. It also maintains the integrity of your body’s defensive barriers. Despite sounding simple, this is an essential part of overall health, particularly when you are unwell.
Mucous membranes are most effective and moist with proper hydration. These membranes are in your nose, mouth, and throat. They act as a first line of defense against illnesses – they do this by trapping bacteria and viruses before they can enter your body. If you do not drink enough, they will become dry and unable to filter out pathogens.
Water is a must-have. Women should aim for roughly 11.5 cups, while 15.5 cups is better for men. This will vary depending on your needs. When you are unwell, water can be drank as well as broth and herbal teas.
To conclude, colds and flus can take a lot out of a person. Being able to fight the illnesses is crucial, but preventative measures should be prioritized. If you want to protect yourself during the winter months, follow the three tips outlined above.