As temperatures begin to drop and leaves change their color, fall season brings with it a whole new set of trends, traditions and potential health problems. With the weather fluctuations, the season can wreak havoc on your immune system.

Not to mention, the inevitable cold and flu season is fast approaching, which is another common health concern for many. However, it doesn’t mean you have to succumb to these seasonal illnesses. Here are some tips to stay healthy and protect yourself against viruses as the season progresses:.

1. Keep Your Hands Clean

One of the best ways to stay healthy this fall is by keeping your hands clean. As we touch surfaces, we are also at risk of coming into contact with harmful bacteria and viruses. Keeping our hands clean helps prevent the spread of germs.

Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Alternatively, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you are unable to wash your hands straight away.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Fall season is a great time to get cozy and hibernate indoors, but do not forget to get enough sleep. Your body needs plenty of rest to recharge your immune system so it can fight off any potential infections.

Make sure you are getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep your body healthy.

3. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is not only essential for keeping your body fit and healthy but also for enhancing your immune system.

Exercise can help flush out toxins in your body, improve mood, and encourage the production of white blood cells to fight off any infections.

4. Stay Hydrated

Stay hydrated this season by drinking plenty of water. Keeping your body well-hydrated is crucial to maintaining overall health and can help prevent the onset of respiratory problems.

If you are struggling to drink plain water, you can try adding fresh lemon, cucumber, or mint to a glass of water to add some flavor.

5. Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help keep your immune system strong and prevent illnesses. Consider adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet this fall season.

Studies suggest that foods packed with vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and zinc are useful in supporting a healthy immune system.

6. Avoid Close Contact with Infected Individuals

If someone around you is infected with a virus, try to avoid close contact with them. One of the common ways in which we contract viruses is by being close to someone who is currently infected.

If you do need to be near someone who is sick, wear a mask and practice good respiratory etiquette to help protect yourself.

7. Consider getting vaccinated

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting the flu vaccine. Vaccines help boost your body’s immune system, and they are available every year.

Getting vaccinated each year can ensure that you are protected against the current strains of the flu virus, and it is highly recommended by healthcare professionals.

8. Keep Stress Levels Under Control

Stress can weaken your immune system, making you more prone to illnesses. Therefore, it is essential to keep your stress levels under control.

Consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing or yoga in your daily routine to help keep anxiety levels low.

9. Get fresh air

Getting fresh air during the Fall season is just as essential as in the humid Summer. Indoor closed spaces might have an increased risk of spreading viruses.

Open windows to gain fresh air circulation, take walks, and spend as much time outside as you possibly can. Fresh air has a ton of benefits and can help boost your immune system by bringing in oxygen to your body.

10. Monitor Symptoms and Seek Professional Help

If you experience symptoms of a viral illness, do not ignore them. Symptoms may include fever, coughing, exhaustion, body aches, and headaches. Please seek professional medical advice and get tested if necessary.