Preparing For Flu Season
Fall means cozy weekends, breaking out the flannel-lined pants and, unfortunately, flu season. Like the changing of the leaves, flu season is something that you can’t really avoid. That being said, there are some steps you can take to stave off sickness this fall and winter.
One of the best ways to avoid getting sick is to avoid contact with people who are sick. You know the guy who insists on coming to work because he “feels fine” but spends the whole day coughing and blowing his nose? Don’t be that guy. Do yourself and your office mates a favor and get a flu shot, which will protect you from certain flu strains. Then if you do get sick, do your coworkers a bigger favor and stay home.
If you are experiencing the following symptoms, you probably have the flu:
- Fever
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Muscle ache
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Viruses like the flu are transmitted through mucus, so always cover your mouth—cough into your elbow to avoid using your hands. As much as a flu shot helps prevent flu strains, the best way to prevent catching anything is to wash your hands. When you handle telephones, desks, water fountain handles, door handles, anything that’s “communal” around the office (because we know you keep your workspace clean), you are at risk for picking up some lingering germs. Make sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Gloves and proper cleaning are a top choice of the SITEX team as well.
Other than taking caution to stay healthy at work, staying healthy in other areas of your life can help prevent illness. You’ve heard that exercising is good for your mental health and managing stress levels, but did you know there is a direct correlation between your stress levels and physical health? Sleeping regular hours, eating a balanced diet and making sure to get at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate intensity exercise each week.
Stay healthy in and out of the office and perhaps you’ll make it through this flu season hopefully without the flu.