There’s no exact way to avoid contracting a cold or flu virus. However, methods of preventative care, including practicing good personal hygiene and getting your annual shots, can significantly decrease your risk. Here are a few tips to increase your chances of staying healthy throughout the winter.

How Can You Avoid Getting a Cold or Flu?

1. Wash Your Hands

Consider all the surfaces and objects you touch throughout the course of a day. Many of these contain germs and bacteria that can increase your risk of getting sick. Washing your hands regularly, especially after being in public spaces and before eating, can reduce this risk. Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose as well to prevent transmitting germs to others. Wash with soap and warm, clean water for at least 20 seconds. If you’re outside and away from a sink, use hand sanitizer.

2. Get the Flu Vaccine 

Vaccines are one of the most effective preventative care measures to prevent viruses and diseases, including the flu. In fact, on average, flu vaccines decrease the risk of flu by 40 to 60%. If someone does get sick, they're less likely to experience severe symptoms. These vaccines work by prompting the immune system to create antibodies to combat the year’s most prevalent flu strain. These antibodies remain for about six months, which is why it’s important to be vaccinated every year.

3. Hydrate & Eat a Balanced Diet 

A balanced, nutritious diet can improve your overall health and bolster your immune system. Vitamin C, found in high amounts in citrus fruits, can shorten the duration of colds. Zinc, found in legumes, nuts, seeds, shellfish, meat, dairy, and whole grains, may do the same. Vitamin D3 is another nutrient that's vital for your immunity. Fortified soy, almond, and rice drinks and orange juice, fatty fish, mushrooms, and dairy products are good sources of vitamin D3.

If you’re looking for preventative care, turn to Dumas Family Practice in Dumas, TX. For nearly 30 years, this team of dedicated health care professionals has served the Northern Texas panhandle. They provide various services, including flu care. Call (806) 935-9005 to schedule an appointment with a doctor, or visit the website to learn more about this family practice.