How to Fight the Flu.. and Win!
Cold and flu season comes like a thief in the night, and has caught our family off guard before. There isn’t anything quite so frustrating as waking up to the realization that you’ve come down with a cold…only to discover that your entire family has caught the exact same one. This year, we’re determined not to let cold and flu season catch us off guard! If you’re determined to keep the cold and flu bug away from your family this season, you’ll want to be sure to follow these tips!
How to fight the flu… and win!
Prepare early
One common misconception about the flu shot is that you should get it at the beginning of flu season. In reality, it takes up to two weeks for your immunity to actually build up, after you receive the flu vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Another common misconception is that if you received the flu vaccination in the past, you don’t need one this year. In reality, the immunity provided by the flu vaccination declines over time. This is why it’s important to make sure your entire family receives their flu vaccinations each and every year.
Know how the flu spreads
Many people believe that steering clear of sick individuals is a great way to avoid the flu. While the flu virus may be spread by coughing and sneezing… that isn’t the only way or the fastest way. In fact, the most common way the flu is spread is when hands that have touched contaminated surfaces go near your face. Contaminated surfaces can include door handles and surfaces can actually house the flu virus for anywhere from a few hours up until an entire day! That brings us to our next point…
Sanitize Often and Well
It’s important to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you aren’t able to wash your hands with soap and water, use an alcohol-based soap or hand sanitizer. It’s also important for your immune system that you stay home when you get sick. When you recognize early symptoms of the flu and stay home, you can also avoid spreading your germs throughout the workplace or classroom.
Stock up on Flu Season Supplies
Over-the-counter cold and flu remedies, multivitamins, and anti-bacterial cleaning products are all essential to have on hand during cold and flu season. You can pick up these items, as well as receive a flu vaccination on one of CVS’ 9,600 retail pharmacy locations or their more than 1,100 walk-in medical clinics (MinuteClinic)!
The thought of you or your family coming down with an illness can be scary. Follow these tips and stock up in advance to play your part in avoiding this and keeping everyone healthy and happy this flu season!
Disclosure: I’m proud to be working with CVS Pharmacy to help spread the word about #BetterHealthMadeEasy and how to #FindYourHealthy. All opinions expressed are my own, and all product claims or program details shared should be verified at CVS.com or with the appropriate manufacturers.
