As summer turns to fall and the leaves begin to change, you know that flu season is on its way. But not to worry! Here at Thornhill’s Pharmacy, we are here to support you in every aspect of your personal health and wellbeing, which is why we’ve put together some of the top tips to help you avoid the flu this fall. From getting your yearly flu vaccine to everyday habits like good hand washing, here are some of the best tips to prevent the flu and stay healthy all fall:
1. Get Your Yearly Flu Vaccine
When it comes to ways to prevent the flu, there are none more effective than getting your yearly flu vaccine. Different strains of the flu are prevalent in different years, which is why it is so important to get the updated vaccination each year. Getting your flu vaccine not only helps keep you from contracting the flu, it also contributes to herd immunity. Herd immunity occurs when a large number of people are vaccinated against an illness, which significantly slows down its ability to spread. The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent the flu, which is why it’s so important for everyone to get vaccinated!
2. Wash Your Hands Often
Although it may seem simple and perhaps even obvious, good hand washing practices are one of the top ways to prevent the flu. The flu virus is able to live on surfaces for several hours, meaning that you can inadvertently touch a surface that contains the virus. By washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, you can minimize the chances that you will come into contact with the flu, lowering your chances of contracting it. If soap and water are not readily available, hand sanitizers can be a good substitute – but it is always best to wash with soap and water if you can!
3. Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose, and Mouth
One of the top ways that people contract the flu is by accidentally touching their eyes, nose, or mouth after coming in contact with the virus on a surface. Frequent hand washing can help reduce the likelihood of this, but it is still advisable to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth whenever possible. Try to be aware of when you touch your face, and make sure that your hands are clean when you do so. Generally, it is a good rule to avoid touching your face while in public or if you have not recently washed your hands. This is another good strategy to help you prevent the flu this fall.
4. Take a Daily Multivitamin
Another strategy that can help you prevent the flu is to take a daily multivitamin, which helps to provide your body with essential vitamins and minerals and supports your immune system. This can help your body resist illnesses such as the flu, as vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc play important roles in your immune response. By taking a daily multivitamin, you are giving your body valuable tools to keep you healthy during flu season.
When you follow these helpful tips, you are setting your body up for success during flu season. Taking steps like getting your yearly flu vaccine and washing your hands regularly can be extremely beneficial when it comes to trying to prevent the flu. If you are looking for a pharmacy that will work with you to optimize your personal health and help you guard against health risks, our team here at Thornhill’s Pharmacy is ready to help. Just reach out to our team to get started today!
