10 ways to prevent getting sick this winter
Roers has a Wellness Committee which has come up with a top 10 list of simple yet effective ways to help employees stay healthy this winter during cold and flu season. We wanted to share this list as temperatures drop and cold and flu season approaches, to help minimize symptoms with everyone in the community.
- Get a flu vaccination. Check with your physician about getting a flu shot this year. The vaccination is available at doctors’ offices and pharmacies, so after getting the okay from your doctor, get the shot early in the season. Roers had a flu clinic this year in our office recently which many employees took advantage of. Call your medical provider to get this scheduled.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Every time you shake hands with someone, wash your hands afterward. Washing your hands prior to eating and touching your face is a crucial way to prevent the spread of harmful viruses and bacteria. We know that this has been the most used phrase in 2020 #washyourhands.
- Avoid touching your eyes and mouth. Cold and flu germs can easily infect you through your eyes and mouth. If you must touch your face, wash your hands first. Common sense we know, but not always easy to remember, especially when we are trying to keep face coverings on most times. Have hand sanitizer at your desk, vehicle, and maybe in your pocket to always be prepared.
- Get adequate sleep. Sleep deprivation can compromise the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Aim for seven to nine hours each night. Put that social media down, turn off the tv, and get those Zzzz.
- Work out. Not only is working out good for your cardiovascular system and weight management, staying fit boosts your immunity and helps you manage your stress levels, which is important for staying healthy in flu season. Working out doesn’t have to be going to a gym or doing hot yoga. Getting movement can be taking a loop around our office or walking your pet each morning.
- Keep hand sanitizer handy for those times when you don’t have access to soap and water. If you are out and about, keep a bottle of alcohol-based sanitizer in your bag or pocket to de-germ on the go.
- Don’t bite your nails. Germs lurk underneath your nails and biting your nails is just another way you can become infected with the cold or flu virus. What a perfect time to break that bad habit!
- Avoid people who are already sick. If someone is coughing or sneezing, keep your distance. Likewise, if you are sick and contagious, take time to rest at home so you can get better and not spread germs to those you come in contact with.
- Eat a healthy diet. Similar to working out, eating right can have benefits for not only your weight, but also your immune system. Get your vital daily nutrients from fruits and vegetables to keep your immunity strong. Stay away from the break room or donuts at breaks! Removing junk from your daily schedule helps keep you feeling better and you will be a leg up when we can finally go on sunny beach vacations again.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids – especially water – flushes toxins out of your system and keeps you healthy. If you do happen to get sick, staying well-hydrated is just as important for your recovery. Set yourself a goal and make sure you start early in the morning.