Flu season is a time when many people fall ill with the influenza virus. The flu can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. It is highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person.

However, there are several best practices that can help you stay healthy during flu season. By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of getting the flu and maintain good health.

1. Get Vaccinated

The first and most important step in protecting yourself from the flu is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the most common strains of the virus each year.

It is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, particularly those at higher risk, such as young children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Getting vaccinated can significantly reduce your chances of getting the flu and its complications.

2. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Proper hand hygiene is critical in preventing the spread of the flu virus. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after being in public places.

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these entry points can allow the flu virus to enter your body.

3. Cover Your Mouth and Nose

When you cough or sneeze, be sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. This helps prevent the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain the flu virus. Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward.

If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow to avoid spreading germs onto your hands.

4. Stay Home When Sick

If you develop flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, cough, sore throat, or body aches, it is important to stay home and avoid close contact with others. This helps prevent the spread of the virus to coworkers, classmates, and family members.

Stay home until your symptoms improve and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications.

5. Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals

During flu season, it is advisable to avoid close contact with individuals who are sick with flu-like symptoms.

This includes staying away from crowded places and maintaining a safe distance of at least 6 feet from anyone who is coughing, sneezing, or exhibiting signs of illness. If someone in your household is sick, try to minimize contact and take necessary precautions to prevent transmission.

6. Clean and Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces

Flu viruses can survive on surfaces for several hours, making it important to clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. These include doorknobs, light switches, countertops, keyboards, and phones.

Use household disinfectants that are effective against flu viruses and follow the instructions on the product label for proper use.

7. Practice Healthy Habits

A strong immune system can help prevent the flu and fight off infections. Make sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep.

These habits boost your immune system and make it more resilient against illnesses, including the flu.

8. Avoid Touching Your Face

Viruses often enter our bodies through mucous membranes, such as those found in our eyes, nose, and mouth. Avoid touching your face as much as possible, as this can transfer viruses from your hands to these entry points.

Be conscious of this habit and try to avoid it by keeping your hands occupied or using a tissue or cloth to scratch any itch.

9. Take Precautions while Traveling

Traveling can expose you to germs and increase your risk of contracting the flu. Avoid close contact with sick individuals during your journey and use disinfectant wipes on frequently touched surfaces like tray tables, seat belts, and armrests.

Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after touching shared surfaces or using public transportation. If you are flying, consider using a face mask for added protection.

10. Stay Informed

Stay informed about the latest updates and recommendations from trusted sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO).

These organizations provide valuable information on flu activity, vaccination guidelines, and preventive measures. By staying informed, you can make well-informed decisions to protect yourself and your loved ones.