October marks the start of Cold and Flu Season, and TPMG wants to make sure you and your family are prepared.
Protect yourself and others with these tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and don’t forget to schedule your flu vaccine with a TPMG Primary Care Provider in Hampton Roads, VA.
Â
6 Healthy Habits to Prevent the Flu
- Wash Your Hands – Washing your hands frequently will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Keep Your Hands Away from Your Face – Viruses can survive on surfaces, like doorknobs and countertops, for hours or even days. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, as germs can spread easily this way.
- Avoid Crowds – Limiting your contact with large crowds can reduce your risk of exposure to the flu. When in crowded indoor places or using public transportation, consider wearing a mask to reduce the spread of germs.
- Boost Your Immune System – Eating nutritious foods, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, managing stress, and staying active ensures a strong immune system, and helps your body to fight off illness.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes – Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, throw used tissues in the trash immediately, and wash your hands. If a tissue isn’t available, cough into your elbow.
- Stay Home When You Are Sick – If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you’re sick to reduce the spread of viruses. Wait until at least 24 hours after your symptoms have resolved and your fever has subsided before returning to your normal activities.
Get Your Annual Flu Vaccine in Hampton Roads, VA
The CDC considers the annual flu vaccine the most important step for reducing your risk of getting the flu and its potentially serious complications. To schedule your annual flu vaccine with a TPMG Primary Care Provider in Hamptons Roads, VA, find a Primary Care Provider near you, or use our Find a Location tool to search by provider name, city or specialty.
