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Protect Your Family from the Common Cold
As the song says, this is "the most wonderful time of the year." But it's also cold and flu season. And there are germs on every door handle just waiting to make their way into your home this winter.
So how do you protect yourself? We've got 10 tips for keeping your home germ-free and your family happy and healthy to enjoy this special season.
Don't touch your face.Don't touch your face.
One of the most common ways that people get sick is by touching their eyes, nose or mouth when they have germs on their hands. So think twice next time your eye is itchy or you feel like you've got something stuck in your teeth. Or at least make sure your hands are clean first.
Keep your distance.Keep your distance.
The flu is highly contagious and can be transmitted by something as innocent as a small kiss on the cheek or someone breathing in your direction. And here's the scary part . you can catch the flu from someone who isn't even showing flu symptoms yet. So play it safe and stay away from unusually crowded places during flu season. And avoid excessive hugs and kisses whenever possible.
Get fresh air.Get fresh air.
Think you're just being paranoid when you feel like the air in an enclosed room is full of germs? Think again! Just one sneeze and everyone in a room may be exposed to these germs. And in the winter, we all have a tendency to stay indoors with little-to-no fresh air. Less air means more germs. In fact, that's one of the main reasons why people are more likely to get sick in the winter. So what can you do? Get outside whenever you can. And on a warmer-than-normal winter day, open the windows and air out as many rooms as possible.
Use disposable items . and dispose of them! Use disposable items . and dispose of them!
Have you ever taken a close look at the towel in the kitchen that you use to dry your hands? How about the mug that your child just took a sip out of? If you could look at them under a microscope you'd be horrified at all the germs you see. So during cold and flu season, use paper towels instead of kitchen towels and use disposable paper cups for kids who may share a drink. And after you use a tissue, throw it out immediately! Setting it down on a counter, desk, or nightstand - even for a second - will only contaminate the area.
Maintain your health.Maintain your health.
This is a pretty simple concept . the healthier you are, the less likely that you'll get sick. So eat lots of fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly, and sleep at least eight hours a night. Also, avoid alcohol as much as possible and keep your stress level to a minimum. Caring for your physical and mental well-being can make a big difference in keeping you healthier this winter.
