Stay Focused on Flu and Cold Prevention
Every year, you’re probably inundated with warnings about cold and flu season. And while it can be easy to brush off the advice—don’t. Doctors (and mothers) keep repeating the same spiel because millions of people keep getting sick.
Sore throats and body aches aren’t the only concern. These respiratory illnesses sometimes lead to serious health problems like pneumonia and bronchitis. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to protect both yourself and your loved ones.
Here’s a refresher on cold and flu prevention tips:
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Instead of … |
Stay safe by … |
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Only washing your hands after going to the bathroom |
Cleaning your hands frequently, such as:
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Going through the motions when washing your hands |
Taking the full 20 seconds to wash your hands—scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails |
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Waiting until you’re home to clean your hands |
Keeping a travel size hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) with you for when you don’t have access to soap and water |
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Mindlessly touching your face with dirty hands |
Being aware of your face-touching habits; only touch your face with freshly washed hands |
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Skipping your annual flu vaccine |
Making time to get the flu vaccine every year—it’s best to get vaccinated by early fall, but vaccines are still beneficial in January or later |
What If I Get Sick?
If you come down with the flu or a cold, follow this advice to avoid spreading it to others:
- Stay home. Ask someone to run errands for you.
- Before coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue (or shirt sleeve). Wash your hands immediately after.
- Refrain from hugging, touching, or having any close contact with other people.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces often. For example: light switches, handrails, doorknobs, and cellphones.
Cold, Flu, or Coronavirus?Dealing with sniffles and a sore throat is never any fun. But now, these symptoms are even more stressful: What if it’s COVID-19? For a refresher on the difference between having the flu, the coronavirus, or a cold, check out our symptom guide.