Winter has long been termed as the cold and flu season. And with the arrival of the chilly weather, there is only one question on parents’ minds; how to avoid common cold in winter and keep their little ones safe.
There are so many ways winter is beautiful but with its beauty comes the responsibility for us to keep ourselves safe from it. Therefore, tag along as we discuss some of the best ways to keep ourselves and children safe from the cold and flu.
5 Ways to Stay Healthy During the Cold and Flu Season
1. Don’t Share Food and Drinks
Sharing food or drink around the table is a rapid method of germ transmission. In order to avoid the transmission of pathogens between family members and close acquaintances, it is advisable to choose disposable straws rather than drinking directly from the cup while dining outside.
Similarly, the same precautions can be extended to home items: avoid sharing towels, refrain from using bedding that has recently been used by someone else, regularly disinfect common surfaces, and only utilize shared fitness equipment if it has been meticulously sanitized.
2. Stay Home, Stay Safer
If you have a fever, test positive for the flu, or start to show any signs of a cold or flu, stay home and don’t talk to other people. This means not going to work, school, or things outside. Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough if you are near other people.
If you are more likely than others to get sick from the flu, you should talk to a doctor about what you should do next. An antibiotic may be prescribed by your doctor to help with treatment. For now, it is best to stay home, rest, and drink a lot of water to avoid becoming dehydrated.
3. Practice Healthy Habits
Health is a cluster of habits that help keep the germs away. Here is a list of the healthy habits that you can practice during the winter season.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Be physically active.
- Manage your stress.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Eat nutritious food.
- Wash your hands more often.
4. Strengthen Your Immune System
You can better fight off colds, the flu, and other viral diseases if you make your immune system stronger. If you get the flu or a cold, having a strong immune system may help with the symptoms and length of the illness.
By getting enough sleep, working out daily, and eating well, you can make your immune system stronger. Cut back on prepared foods, sugar, and high-fat foods, and eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
5. Get a Flu Shot and See a Doctor
There aren’t any shots that can protect you from getting a cold, though. This is because over 200 different bugs can make you sick with a cold. But there are shots that can help you avoid getting the flu or make an illness less bad if you already have it.
A new flu shot is made every year to help protect against the flu strains that experts think will be most popular that season.
Recap
In conclusion, staying healthy during the winter months and avoiding the common cold is not only achievable but can also contribute to a more enjoyable and festive season.
By incorporating these practical tips into your daily routine—such as maintaining good hand hygiene, supporting your immune system, staying hydrated, practicing respiratory etiquette, and keeping your surroundings clean—you can create a robust defense against the viruses that tend to thrive in colder weather. Remember, the question of how to avoid common cold in winter is a proactive approach to your well-being is key, and small, consistent efforts can go a long way in safeguarding yourself and those around you.
Also Read: 5 Home Remedies for Joint Pain and Stiffness this Winter.