Approximately 200,000 people in the United States find themselves in the hospital due to complications from influenza, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Vaccinations are available for the young and old alike; however, not everyone can receive them.
To effectively prevent the spread of this contagious disease, everyone needs to take responsibility for himself. Implementing specific habits protects you and others around you from the spread of influenza.
Step 1
Wash your hands frequently. Hand washing is the most important preventative measure you can take to protect yourself from influenza. Using warm water and soap, wash thoroughly; this includes between your fingers, on your palms, and under your nails. Do this especially after touching objects another person touches, such as door knobs and refrigerator handles. The CDC recommends using an alcohol-based rub when soap and water are not available.
Step 2
Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Influenza is an airborne disease; the germs infect others when they breathe them into their system. Using a tissue is the best way to prevent this from happening, as it can be thrown away after you use it. The next best means is to cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm rather than into your hands, which spread germs every time you touch something.
Step 3
Sleep a full eight hours. To obtain and maintain top notch health, you need a good night's rest. The website FluHelp explains that the right amount of rest strengthens your immune system. When weak or tired, your body is unable to fight the flu as easily.
Step 4
Boost your immune system with the right types of food. Certain foods have the ability to strengthen your immune system, giving your body the ability to ward off influenza when exposure occurs. Fruits and vegetables full of vibrant color contain phytonutrients, while raw or slightly cooked garlic contains antiviral properties.
Step 5
Stay home when sick with the flu. Staying home when you have flu-like symptoms such as a fever, sore throat, runny nose, or cough not only allows you to return to health more quickly; it also helps prevent others from becoming infected. The CDC recommends staying home until you are free of fever for a period of 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Water
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Tissue
- Garlic
- Fruits
- Vegetables
