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Cold and flu are contagious respiratory illnesses that spread through droplets in the air. These droplets are made when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can catch a cold or flu simply by being near a sick person or by touching a surface where droplets are present. According to the CDC, people with flu can spread it to others up to 6 feet away! So, what can you do to stay healthy this fall? We outline 5 easy tips below.

While it’s possible to get the flu year-round, the fall and winter months are prime flu season (and staying indoors makes it even easier to pass illnesses on to the people you love).

Certain populations are at a higher risk of having serious flu-related complications, including pregnant women, children younger than 5 years old, children with chronic medical conditions and anyone who lives with any of the above mentioned populations. Our physician, Dr. Jane Wilson, recommends the following:

• Get the flu vaccine. A yearly flu shot is the best protection against seasonal influenza.
• Wash your hands often. This simple, everyday action is an effective way to remove germs and avoid illness.
• Keep a clean environment. Take extra care to keep your home and work spaces clean during cold and flu season.
• Don’t touch your face. Whether by rubbing tired eyes, itching the nose, or covering a yawn, we all subconsciously touch our face throughout the day. Each time we do, we increase our chances of transferring bacteria.
• Practice a healthy lifestyle. During cold and flu season, it’s important to eat right (think fruits, veggies, and lean protein), exercise, and get adequate rest.

Even with the best precautions, you might still come down with the flu. If you’re suffering from symptoms such as a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, and/or body aches, head into Family Doctor Private Clinic today. We can evaluate your illness and get you the care you need.