Flu Prevention 101

By QualityHealth Staff Writers

Reviewed by QualityHealth's Medical Advisory Board

For some of us, getting the flu each year seems almost inevitable. Even if we get a vaccination, it isn't a guarantee that we won't get sick.

We may feel run down due to our busy schedules, and that's when the flu swoops in, preying on our weakened state. Or coworkers insist on coming to the office when they're sick, and before you know it, influenza has made its way around the workplace.

But there are several things you can do to minimize your chances of catching the flu this year. And if you do get sick, you can avoid spreading the virus to family and friends.

Wash, wash, wash your hands

This may be the most important thing you can do to stay well. Washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is an excellent way to rid your hands of bacteria. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, which don't require water, are another good method of killing germs.

Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose

Bacteria can be spread quickly if you touch a contaminated surface, then touch your eyes, mouth, or nose. So try to keep your hands away from your face.

Throw in the towel

Use disposable paper towels to dry your hands instead of a shared towel. If other members of your family are sick, a shared towel could spread germs.

Eat, drink, and be healthy

Try to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and don't forget those eight glasses of water each day.

Disinfect your toothbrush

Strange as it may sound, storing your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide will keep it germ-free—just rinse well before using.

Keep shared spaces germ-free

During flu season, disinfect shared spaces, such as telephones, computer keyboards, steering wheels, and office equipment, more often than you do at other times of the year.