Winter is almost upon us, and while many of us are dreaming of Christmas movies, mince pies and snow-covered landscapes, it’s time to talk about influenza!
While many people view flu as a mild illness, for some it can be deadly with thousands losing their lives annually as a result of contracting the virus.
The statistics on flu demonstrate its seriousness, but thankfully there are measures we can take to help keep us protected and shield us from the virus. In this post, we’ll cover the key steps you should take to minimise your chances of catching flu or becoming severely ill from the virus.
Steer Clear of Illness
Viruses like the flu are spread from one person to another, so to prevent its spread and stop ourselves from getting sick, we need to avoid close contact with those who are showing symptoms such as coughing or sneezing.
Even those who are asymptomatic, either because symptoms haven’t yet developed or they’re almost fully better, may be contagious. However, it’s next to impossible to know when these people could potentially pass the virus onto you. The best we can do is avoid those who are visibly sick.
Good Hygiene
Maintaining impeccable hygiene is one of the best defences against viruses like influenza as this helps form a barrier between you and the pathogen.
This involves regularly washing hands with soap and water or cleaning them with an alcohol-based hand sanitiser to help stop the virus in its tracks. This is especially after being in public spaces or touching surfaces
Wear A Mask
After years of mask-wearing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, by now most of us are keenly aware of how important they are for protecting us from viruses.
Masks act as a preventative barrier between you and the virus, reducing the spread of the respiratory droplets spread by coughing and sneezing that may carry flu viruses.
Choose a mask that’s well-fitted that covers both the nose and mouth and be sure to wear it when you’re in crowded public spaces like buses or trains.
Avoid Touching Face
As well as breathing in droplets that contain the virus, another way it is transmitted is on surfaces. Those infected with the virus transfer the virus onto these surfaces, which we then touch and spread to ourselves via our eyes, nose or mouth.
This is why you should refrain from touching these areas with unwashed hands as it minimises the risk of catching viruses like flu.
Flu Vaccine
The last and most effective step to avoiding catching influenza is to get the flu jab. This jab works by teaching the body’s immune system to protect itself against flu, which significantly reduces your chances of falling ill or experiencing severe sickness.
Although the flu jab is effective in protecting you for one flu season, the virus is always mutating and new strains are emerging all the time. This is why it’s crucial to have your jab every winter to ensure you’re fully protected.
So those are our top tips for protecting yourself against the flu this winter. As you can see, there are many steps to take in order to stave off the flu and prevent ourselves from getting sick. These include cleaning our hands, not touching our face, avoiding those who are sick and wearing a mask in public spaces.
The final and most important step to spearhead your defence against influenza is the flu jab, so to keep yourself fully protected then be sure to get your jab this winter.
Our pharmacy flu vaccinations are quick, easy and will have you immunised in seconds. We offer both private and NHS vaccinations, so to check if you’re eligible and book yourself in for your jab, speak to us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most effective way to reduce your risk of flu is to have the annual flu vaccination. You can also help protect yourself by washing your hands regularly, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding close contact with people who are unwell, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
While no vaccine provides 100% protection, the annual flu vaccine significantly reduces your risk of catching influenza and lowers the likelihood of severe illness, hospitalisation and complications if you do become infected.
Flu vaccination is especially recommended for adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, carers, healthcare workers and people with long-term health conditions. It is also beneficial for anyone who wants to reduce their risk of catching and spreading influenza.