Respiratory Virus Season Is Here: 7 Tips to Help Keep You Well

By Kaley Nevin, @MyCarolinaLife.com

Respiratory viruses often begin to increase in October, peaking between December and February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This includes viruses like influenza (the flu), the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19.

And now is the time to take proactive steps to help reduce your risk of getting sick and avoid spreading illness, says Dr. Jack Sutcliffe, a family medicine physician with Tidelands Health Family Medicine at Pawleys Island.

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of getting sick:

Wash your hands frequently

Proper hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places or touching shared surfaces.

If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

Avoid touching your face

Germs can easily enter your body through your eyes, nose and mouth.

You are more susceptible to viruses entering the nasal cavity during colder months because the cold air reduces mucus secretions, which act as our body’s natural barriers to infection, according to Dr. Sutcliffe.

Disinfect commonly touched surfaces

Viruses can live on surfaces for hours or even days, so it’s important to regularly disinfect high-touch areas in your home and workspace, including doorknobs, light switches, keyboards and phones.

“Take extra care to clean surfaces that are frequently touched by multiple people,” says Dr. Sutcliffe. “This helps reduce the spread of germs, particularly if someone else is sick in the home.”

Stay home if you’re sick

One of the most important things you can do to prevent the spreading of illness to others is to stay home when you’re not feeling well.

Don’t like ads? Become a supporter and enjoy The Good Men Project ad free

“If you or your child are experiencing sick symptoms, like congestion, fever, sore throat or cough, please stay home and rest,” says Dr. Sutcliffe. “This not only helps you recover faster but also prevents the virus from spreading to your friends, family, classmates and coworkers.”

Get vaccinated

“One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from the flu is getting vaccinated,” says Dr. Sutcliffe. “The flu shot reduces your chances of getting sick with the flu and can reduce your severity of symptoms if you do get sick.”

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over six months old, especially those at higher risk of complications, such as older adults, pregnant women and individuals with underlying health conditions.

It’s also a good idea to check whether you’re due for any other vaccines, like the updated COVID-19 booster.

Get enough rest

“Sleep is your body’s time to heal and regenerate,” says Dr. Sutcliffe. “If you’re not getting enough rest, it can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infections.”

Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Building a strong immune system is another key to staying healthy during flu season. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle year-round.

“Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, staying physically active, getting enough sleep and managing stress all contribute to a stronger immune system,” he says. “These habits help your body fight off infections more effectively.”

—

Previously Published on mycarolinalife

***

Does dating ever feel challenging, awkward or frustrating?

Turn Your Dating Life into a WOW! with our new classes and live coaching.

Click here for more info or to buy with special launch pricing!

***

On Substack? Follow us there for more great dating and relationships content.

Join The Good Men Project as a Premium Member today.

All Premium Members get to view The Good Men Project with NO ADS. A $50 annual membership gives you an all access pass. You can be a part of every call, group, class and community. A $25 annual membership gives you access to one class, one Social Interest group and our online communities. A $12 annual membership gives you access to our Friday calls with the publisher, our online community.