The leaves are falling, and the air is getting crisper – that can only mean one thing: flu season is upon us. No one is really excited to hear that, but no matter how much we may want to deny it, the change in weather changes our bodies. This year, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect yourself and others from the flu. Â
The Power of the Flu Shot
Every year, influenza, also known as the flu virus, takes a toll on public health. The healthcare system encourages the public to get the flu shot before and during the season to prevent hospitalizations and much more. If you didn’t know, the flu shot changes every year, and that is because the virus transforms to survive and, doing so, changes every year. Because of this, it is emphasized that the public takes this simple and readily available vaccine because it offers protection against the new virus. Â
Many people may have their doubts, but it has been proven time and time again that the flu shot is an essential way to prevent the flu. Here’s what it does:Â Â
- Prevent: The flu shot is your first line of defense against the virus. It helps your immune system recognize and fight the flu virus if you’re exposed to it.Â
- Reduce Severity: In case you do get the flu after receiving the vaccine, it often leads to milder symptoms, and you stay sick for less time.Â
- Protects Vulnerable Populations: Getting vaccinated helps protect those who can easily catch the virus and suffer from severe complications. This includes young children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
Flu Season Safety Tips
At MyCHN, we are encouraging you to come in and get your flu shot. This is the first step in flu season safety that we are offering. Whether you have insurance or not, you can visit a MyCHN Pharmacy near you and get the flu vaccine today. If you want more information, don’t hesitate to call us or click this link (Flu Vaccine) with more information. Â
In addition to getting your flu shot, adopting some healthy habits can keep you safe during this flu season. Hand hygiene is the easiest and first one we’ll give you. It’s important that you wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places or touching shared surfaces. The next tip we’ll give you is to cover your mouth. Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing is also important. After that, you want to ensure that you throw away your tissues properly and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.Â
I know that you’re tired of social distancing and wearing a mask, but it truly does help, and that is our next tip. If you don’t feel well, try to limit your contact with others; this makes it less likely for you to spread what you have. If you have to be around people, wear a mask, especially in crowded or indoor settings. Our last tip would be to clean and disinfect. Do your best to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home and workspace, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.Â
Foods That Boost Your Immune System
We’re sure if you practice all these tips in addition to getting your flu shot, you’ll be good for the flu season. Before you go, we want to share some foods that can help boost your immune system. While there’s no magic food that guarantees immunity from the flu, maintaining a healthy diet rich in immune-boosting nutrients can certainly help. Here are some foods to incorporate into your meals:Â
- Citrus Fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes
- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and collard greens
- Garlic
- Yogurt: Probiotic-rich yogurt
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds, and walnuts
- Lean Proteins: Foods like chicken, turkey, and tofu
- Ginger
- Green Tea
- Water
Take steps to protect yourself and your community during flu season. Remember to get your flu shot, practice good hygiene, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Together, we can reduce the impact of the flu and keep our communities safe and healthy.Â
Tolulope Ayoola
Tolulope Ayoola is the creative marketing content writer at MyCHN. She graduated from the University of Houston-Downtown with a degree in Technical Communications. Her goal and mission is to make healthcare patient content more relatable and interesting to interact with. She combines her creative eye with her technical communication skills to create content for patients. Tolu's past work includes creating blogs, press releases, and social media content for different sectors. She enjoys spending time with her family, writing, and listening to music & podcasts.
