Many experts recommend getting the flu vaccine to help prevent or reduce the severity of the flu and the other complications that can occur as the result of influenza. Many also recommend getting the Covid 19, RSV and Pneumonia vaccines. You can discuss these with your health care provider to see if they are appropriate for you.
Practicing good hygiene habits also reduces your exposure to the viruses that cause these illnesses. Practice handwashing for 20 seconds with warm, soapy water before eating, after being in public places and coughing or sneezing. And avoid touching your face. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
Try to avoid people who are sick, and avoid crowded indoor spaces. Sanitize surfaces like doorknobs, counter tops, phones, keyboards and other surfaces that people come in contact with.
Help keep your immune system healthy by eating foods that are rich in nutrients to help bolster immunity. Fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins and dairy along with supplements including Vitamin D, C are helpful to bolster the immune system.
Managing stress is also important to bolster immunity. Chronic stress affects the immune system by releasing hormones that overwhelm it, leading to chronic inflammation, making you vulnerable to infections.
Improve indoor ventilation by opening a window for a short period of time to recirculate fresh air. A HEPA air purifier to reduce virus particles and a humidifier to help keep mucus membranes from getting dried out are also helpful.
Spend some time outdoors, if practical, to take a walk, as brisk walking helps circulation and immunity.
If you do get sick, stay home to avoid infecting others, stay hydrated, treat your fever with medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen if approved for use by your health care provider. Also, home test kits for Flu and Covid are available. Testing at home can also help your health care provider guide your care and also offer prescription antiviral medications if needed.
And if you have any concerns or questions about your illness, contact your health care provider.