Handy tips to avoid the flu

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With flu season in full swing, there are a few, quick and easy ways to help keep the spreading of germs at bay whether it be at home, work or school.
Containing a virus once caught isn’t easy, but there are some basic things you can do to help keep yourself, family and co-workers healthy.
One of the easiest, most important, but often forgotten germ mitigation tool is handwashing. Yes, handwashing.
Did you know you should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, or the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice? Go ahead, belt out that tune – it’s for the sake of health!
When warm water and soap for handwashing aren’t available, it’s recommended to use an alcohol-based sanitizing gel and rub your hands together until the gel disappears, leaving a layer of protection on your hands.
You can also step up your disinfecting. Even if you’re not germ-conscious every day, flu season might be the time to begin focusing more on disinfecting surfaces in your home or work environment; both of which can help mitigate the spread of germs and viruses.
It’s also recommended you avoid close contact with people who are sick, and when you are feeling a bit under the weather, keep your distance from others and stay home from work or school. These are two of the most critical steps people can take to stop the spread of germs and illness.
Make it a practice to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick, and it’s also a good idea to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might get sick by touching a surface or object that has a virus on it, and then touching his or her own mouth, eyes or nose.
These everyday simple steps are the best way to reduce your chances of getting all sorts of illnesses, but a yearly flu vaccine is always the best way to safeguard yourself and those around you.
While trying to prevent germs from infecting others is a noble goal, remember that people do get sick, and even the most careful individuals have a hard time containing a virus. Most of the time, you’re contagious before you even have any symptoms.
If you are feeling under the weather, Mercy Health has more than two dozen points of care across the Valley, including walk-in locations where you can visit a primary-care doctor after hours and on the weekends. Visit www.mercy.com and schedule your appointment at a location nearest you.