The winter season is well underway, and for most Americans that means elevated stress. With increased stress, people often experience fatigue and sickness. Fight the cold, flu and COVID season with these tips for self-care
Boost Your Immune System
Start with the basics – improving your immune system. Give your body extra fighting power by eating healthier. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals that help keep flu season from taking you down. But that’s not all. Wash your hands more often and carry plenty of hand sanitizer to prevent the spread of germs. The most important thing you can do to support your immune system, though, is to drink plenty of fluids and get a lot of rest. Water is best, and always try to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night.
Related Post: 7 Foods That Will Have You Feeling Good
Maintain a Routine
Maintain your routine by planning for healthy living in advance. Prep meals on the weekends, maintain a regular sleep schedule, schedule time for fun activities and relaxation, and do your best to increase physical activity. Studies show time and again that routine makes you healthier and more productive in everything you do. If you’re new to maintaining a schedule, start small. Pick just one thing to do consistently for your health. Remember, it can take as little as two months to form a habit. So the most important thing is to stick with it.
Order Free Covid-Tests
Every home in the United States is now eligible to order four free at-home COVID-19 tests. Tests are completely free and are expected to ship in 7-12 days. Each package of four comes with a tracking number once it ships. We encourage all members to order a set for their home. Orders are made through and delivered by the United States Postal Service.
See more information about the tests in the post about the past test kit delivery program.
Always remember to test yourself when you are notified you are in contact with someone that tests positive for COVID. See CDC recommendations for isolation periods if you test positive.
Schedule Flu and Covid-19 Vaccines
It’s not too late to get the flu shot or a Covid-19 vaccine or booster. You can book an appointment online at your local CVS, Walgreens, or other pharmacy. People can also schedule these shots with their primary care provider. Vaccines show be included as preventative care on any health insurance plan. So the shots will come at no cost to you.
Practice Protection Methods
Everyone learned a lot about preventing the spread of illness during the pandemic. Wearing a mask, washing hands, and maintaining distance from others in public places are all good ways to keep colds, flu, RSV and other illnesses from spreading as well as preventing COVID. Always cover your mouth before coughing or sneezing. Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. And don’t forget about disinfecting. Surfaces, objects, doorknobs and mobile devices are all places germs can flourish.
We hope you are able to use these tips to stay healthy the remainder of the season!