I recently got over a nasty bout of the flu that had me out of commission for over a week. (That’s the reason I didn’t update the blog at all last week!) My doctor told me that the flu is hitting hard this year, and that about half of the individuals coming down with the flu have also received the flu shot. Flu season is far from over, so here are a few tips my doctor gave me on flu prevention for yourself and your home:
- Avoid contact with sick people – this seems obvious, but many people think it’s okay if the other person “just has a cold.” It’s not. Limit your contact to prevent germs from spreading – what may not manifest in the flu in one person may turn into a raging case in another.
- Don’t just cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough. Cover your nose too, and do it with a tissue or hankie. Then immediately throw out the tissue or wash the hankie. Avoid covering your mouth/nose with your hand or arm unless it’s an emergency.
- Wash often. Use a moisturizing antibacterial soap so you don’t dry out your skin. Wash your hands all the time whether you’re sick or not. If soap and water is not available, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer throughout the day.
- Disinfect surfaces that many people come into daily contact with such as doorknobs, faucets, countertops, television remotes, etc. A disinfecting wipe makes this super easy although you can use traditional cleaners as well.
- Change your toothbrush. My doctor told me this is the biggest thing that people forget. Throw away your toothbrush or otherwise disinfect it so that you don’t re-infect yourself.
- Clean your cell phone. There is a study I read recently that showed that cell phone surfaces are covered in more unhealthy bacteria than the inside of an average toilet. How disgusting is that? Cleaning your cell phone thoroughly at least once a day should become a daily part of everyone’s routine to promote good health.
- And of course, don’t forget to get as much rest as possible. A rested body promotes a healthy immune system much more than a tired one.
Thinking of buying or selling a home in Sussex County? Give us a call at Cooper Realty Associates and put us to work for you – 302-644-2266.