How to Avoid Catching the Flu in the Winter Months

During Winter, trying to avoid catching the flu may seem like trying to stay dry while swimming in the ocean. When everyone else around you starts getting sick, avoiding contact seems to require nothing short of putting yourself in quarantine.

Luckily, avoiding the flu and staying healthy during the winter months is not impossible — it just takes a bit of planning (and some luck). See our tips for below to find out how to remain illness-free over the winter!

Flu shots

It’s a cliché, but it’s true — prevention is always better than cure. Flu shots are essential for warding off infections by causing antibodies to develop in your system. Most clinics and even pharmacies offer flu vaccines, so make sure you visit one as early as possible. However, make sure you don’t get flu shots if you’re feeling sick already.

Stay clean and hygienic

Germs and viruses have a way of spreading like wildfire during winter, so make sure you are doing as much as you can to keep them out of your system. Simple things like using hand sanitiser and cleaning your surroundings on a regular basis go a long way to keeping the flu at bay, especially if you have had contact or been in close proximity with someone who is sick. Also be mindful of avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands unless they’ve just been washed, to prevent the spread of any germs.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Eating and sleeping well is vital for staying healthy, not just in the winter but all year round. When your body is not getting an adequate amount of nutrition or because you’re stressed and not getting enough sleep, your immune system and overall health deteriorates as well. This makes it all the more harder to defend against viruses from entering your body. Make sure you take good care of yourself, and adjust your diet and daily routine if you find yourself beginning to feel run down.