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January 1, 2022
4 Ways To Avoid The Flu (And 3 Sneaky Hiding Places!)
Flu season is in full swing. You can hand sanitize and avoid crowds all you want, but the flu virus lurks in some surprising places. Here are three sneaky flu hiding spots, plus four ways to avoid the flu.
Three sneaky flu spots: Mobile phones, remote controls, and handheld electronics
Let’s face it: your phone goes everywhere with you. But how often do you wash it? You may be holding the flu virus right next to your face. Remote controls and handheld electronics such as gaming controls aren’t much better. Everyone in the family uses them, but not everyone washes their hands or sneezes into their elbow.
So how can you avoid the flu when it seems to be everywhere?
4 ways to avoid the flu
- Take your best shot — The first and perhaps the best way to avoid the flu is to get an annual flu shot. Sensitive groups such as the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and young children could be prime candidates to get the flu shot every year. The protection it offers is important for everyone.
- Happy Birthday to hand washing — The next way to avoid the flu is to wash your hands correctly. Wash your hands carefully with hot, soapy water. The length of time you wash matters, too. Sing “Happy Birthday” under your breath as you wash. That is how long you should wash your hands to kill germs.
- Diligently disinfect – Take the time to wipe down phones, remote controls, and handheld electronics daily with disinfectant wipes. Make this a bedtime or TV-watching activity. It takes just a few minutes but helps prevent the spread of germs.
- It’s best to rest — Finally, get plenty of rest. Our immune systems are weakest when we are tired and stressed. This time of year can be very busy. It is important to rest every day. Aim for seven full hours of sleep every night, too.
Flu season doesn’t have to mean illness; what are your go-to strategies for flu-prevention?
Last Revised: February 2, 2021