Dr Lalitha Badul
The flu (influenza) can occur anytime, but appears mostly in winter. Chilly weather keeps lots of people indoors at the same time. The flu can leave you suffering from fever, chills, and body aches, and can become so severe as to warrant hospitalisation. Prevent the flu this winter by practicing good hygiene, and keeping your body healthy with diet and exercise.
Wash your hands any time you cough, sneeze, or blow your nose, after using the restroom, before eating or preparing food, after caring for someone who is sick, after changing a diaper, and after touching garbage. Use proper hand washing techniques.
Avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth, or nose unless you wash your hands first. Illness is spread easily this way. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your purse, briefcase, or backpack to use first if you need to touch your face.
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If possible, avoid being around someone who has the flu. Stay away from sick friends or neighbours until they’re well. Stay out of crowds during the peak of flu season.
Stay home from work or school if you’re sick, so you don’t contaminate others. You can return to school or work 24 hours after your fever returns to normal, but continue to practice good hand washing hygiene.
If someone in your household is sick, consider sleeping in a different room from them if you usually share a bedroom. Be sure to wash your hands after you interact with them, and clean any cups, cutlery, or dishes they use thoroughly.
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People can still be contagious for up to a week after they’re feeling better. Eating a nutritious and varied diet helps your immune system work. Think about eating a ‘colourful’ diet – one high in fresh fruit and vegetables of many different colours. This can help you get lots of vitamins and nutrients to keep your body healthy.
Stay hydrated to maintain your overall health and avoid getting sick. Drink lots of water. Water, juice, and tea count towards your fluids.
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