As we again go through flu season, there’s one thing that makes this year different, the COVID-19 pandemic. Influenza is a serious illness to deal with, but having another disease that causes respiratory distress adds to the complication of the ailment. These health conditions give us more concern than ever before and leave people wondering how to stay safe while going about their daily lives.
Here are some tips to keep you safe.
Get the flu shot
Flu vaccines are necessary medications that are updated every year to protect users against the flu. If you haven’t already gotten a shot, you should make plans to get one as it reduces your chances of getting the common flu. It may not protect you from the coronavirus, but it’ll work with influenza and reduce your chances of having a weakened immune system. A weak immune system makes you more vulnerable to COVID-19.
Continue with prescribed medications for other conditions
If you have an existing sickness, especially if it’s a respiratory-related disorder or one that weakens your immune system, you should continue to take your prescribed medicine to keep you as healthy as possible during the flu season. For instance, if you have diabetes, you should continue to take medication that helps you manage your blood levels.
Wear a mask and other protective equipment
As much as the face mask is always useful, it’s much more valuable during fly season. Stay diligent in using your face mask and other protective equipment like face shields, gloves, and coats. Wear them and try to ensure those around you do so as well.
Always keep your hands and environment clean
Make an extra effort to keep your hands clean during this season. Your hands are the quickest means of spreading germs and viruses. Wash your hands at every possible chance, and when you can’t, make use of hand sanitizers. The handwashing should be with mild soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizers should be at least 60% alcohol-based.
Also, take into consideration the cleanliness of your environment. Now is the time to make extra efforts in cleaning and disinfecting your home or office space. Get professional cleaning services from companies like Safe From Spread to ensure proper cleaning and disinfecting of your home and workplace.
Take precautions immediately if you experience symptoms
The challenging aspect of this season is that both COVID-19 and influenza have similar symptoms. A particular symptom you assume is caused by the flu may be due to the COVID-19, and vice versa. As a result, assessing your condition without a test may be challenging. But instead of ignoring all symptoms (specifically sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, coughing), you should take precautions as soon as possible. Stay home and away from other people and make plans to get tested for COVID-19 immediately.
Maintain healthy eating and exercising habits
It’s a good idea to maintain a good habit through this season. An uncompromised immune system will get you through the fight against the flu, COVID-19, and any related ailment this season. Eat balanced diets, drink more water, exercise regularly, and get enough rest.
Take care of your mental health, too, as this season can be a bit strenuous, considering that we’ve never had to deal with flu season alongside COVID-19. Relieve yourself of all stress, and before you know it, the flu season will be over.