It's that time of year again. It's getting cold outside and we're starting to feel the effects of the dry air. We're huddling up inside in close proximity, and before you know it, the whole house is sneezing and coughing.
Yup. Flu season.
1. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
One of the simplest of gestures, this can seriously help keep people healthy. By covering your mouth and nose whenever you cough or sneeze, you keep your germs from spreading in the air. This is true for everything from the flu to COVID-19 to common colds.
2. Wash your hands often.
Even if your hands "aren't dirty", it's a good idea to wash them before you handle food, touch your face, or if you've been touching things other people have been touching. That way, you can be sure that any germs you encounter don't have a chance to get into your system.
This can have the unfortunate side effect of drying out your skin, so treat yourself (or ask Santa to treat you) to some quality hand lotion to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.
3. Be mindful of possible exposures.
When your kids are coughing, or you've just been to dinner with a friend who suddenly came down with a cold, take note. It's possible that you could have been exposed to germs without realizing it.
There's always the chance you won't get sick, but being aware of possible contagion gives you a chance to prepare for some potential down time.
4. Check your temperature.
If you're not feeling good, go ahead and take your temperature. The flu and COVID both have a tendency to bring fever with them, so an elevated temperature can be a sure sign that you're sick with something you shouldn't muscle through.
It's also a good idea to take your temperature when you're feeling well, so you have an idea of how hot or cold you normally run; this will make it easier to detect any changes. Some people have body temperatures that fluctuate throughout the day, though, so don't panic if it's higher or lower than last time.
5. Wear a mask.
Masks are nobody's favorite accessory, but they are pretty helpful to keep your mouth and nose covered if you know you're under the weather (see point 1). They're widely available and come in all kinds of patterns - a lot of folks probably still have them from when they were mandated during the pandemic.
If we got 'em, we might as well use 'em!
6. Rest and hydrate.
Again, this is a simple tip that can still make all the difference. When you're sick, your immune system goes into high gear to protect your body from the harmful effects of the infection. Many, many different parts of your body are involved in this process, which can also mean that it takes a lot of energy.
If you're sick, then not only are you going to be more tired than usual, but trying to use too much energy will also make it harder for your body to make itself well again. For this reason, it's very important to rest and let your immune system do its job.
Because of the resources your body needs to use, it's also very important to stay hydrated and eat foods with lots of nutrients. A little junk food might bring a bit of joy, but if it doesn't have nutritional substance, it might not help things that much, and too much might make you feel worse in the long run, especially if you're having tummy troubles.
7. Get vaccinated.
Sadly, there is no cure for the common cold, but the flu and COVID-19 both at least have a vaccine to help prepare your body for potential infection.
If you haven't already, talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated for this year's flu strain and getting boosted on your COVID vaccine. Your doctor will be able to explain the benefits and risks, help ease any concerns you may have, and help you decide if it's right for your body and your health.
When it comes to doing your own research on vaccines, make sure you double check the science behind people's claims. Are the claims based on current research with multiple studies? Are the claims coming from people who are relying on emotion to be convincing? Health matters are important, so many folks have very strong feelings on the subject; make sure that the information you're getting is based on facts, not just feelings.
8. When in doubt, ask your doctor.
Unfortunately, we at the library are not equipped to give medical advice. While these common sense tips can be helpful, they are no substitute for medical advice from a qualified and licensed professional. If you ever have any doubts about your health, be it from illness or injury, you should always make an appointment with your doctor.
Thankfully, Ionia County has a very low infection rate for COVID-19 at the moment, but with flu season coming around, the risk of catching and spreading COVID is also increased. It can be hard to tell the difference between the two, but to make it a bit easier, the library has just been approved as a distribution site for free COVID-19 tests!
Patrons can get up to one box of tests per person in their home each day, up to five tests. There is no tracking or sign-up required; you can just come on in and ask any staff person for one at the circulation desk.
Nobody likes getting sick, but following these tips will hopefully make it easier for everyone to stay healthy and make any illness that does come up a bit more bearable. Do you have any tips that help you stay healthy, or that make you feel better when you're unwell?
Share your tips and thoughts with us in the comments below. I hope you all stay healthy!
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