Ready for the Cold and Flu Season???

As the leaves change color, a much-welcomed chill enters the air, and pumpkin spice everything makes a grand entrance, there's another, less delightful guest that's planning its seasonal visit: the cold and flu season. But fret not, because with a few handy tips and tricks, you can gear up and stay one step ahead of those pesky bugs. Let's dive into how to prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season. 

Arm Yourself with Knowledge

First things first, let's understand what we're up against. The common cold, influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses, but they share many symptoms, making them hard to differentiate sometimes.

The cold usually comes with a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and a sore throat. On the other hand, the flu and COVID-19 can hit you with fever, body aches, fatigue, and a dry cough. 

Because the flu and COVID-19 can look eerily similar, the timing of symptoms is your best indicator when comes to differentiating the two. With a cold or flu, patients can contract the illness and show symptoms between 2 to 3 days after being in contact with another individual who is sick. With COVID-19, the timeline is much longer. You may encounter a COVID-positive individual today and not develop symptoms until up to 10-14 days later, with the average being around 5 days. 

Since a definite diagnosis cannot be made based on symptoms alone, your physician may recommend getting tested for COVID and the flu at the same time that way you can be diagnosed and treated earlier and more efficiently.

If you test positive for COVID, new isolation guidelines recommend that you stay home for at least five days and isolate from others in your home since you are the most infectious during these first five days.

Prioritize Hygiene

Regular handwashing is your secret weapon against illness-causing germs. Scrub your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in crowded places. Hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol can also save the day when soap and water aren't available, but remember to vigorously rub hand sanitizer into your hands to help it break down bacteria’s protective barrier.

Boost Your Immune System

Your immune system is like your body's personal superhero. To keep it in top shape, fuel up with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and zinc, are famous for their immune-boosting prowess, so load up on citrus fruits, nuts, and seeds.

Stock Up on Essentials

It’s always best to go into cold and flu season prepared with over-the-counter medications and items to help alleviate symptoms, whether you end up needing to use them or not.

“I also advise that you make sure you have a thermometer that is functioning and has batteries before the season begins. The last thing you want is to reach for the thermometer when you need it only to find it isn’t working,” he adds. “You can also change the filter on your humidifier (if you have one) in preparation, in addition to having warm and cool compresses available. In anticipation of potentially being home sick for a few days, it’s a good idea to have a couple of days’ worth of food, water and possibly an electrolyte beverage available.”

Catch Those Zzz's

Remember that your immune system loves its beauty sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Proper rest helps your body recover and regenerate, making it more resilient against invading germs.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration isn't only a summer concern. Cold and flu viruses thrive in dry environments, so keep your mucous membranes moist by drinking plenty of water. Herbal teas and warm broths are not only comforting and nutritious, but they can also provide an extra dose of hydration as well.

Clean and Disinfect

Regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces is not just a relic of 2020. Germs love to party on surfaces, so make sure to clean and disinfect your living space regularly. Focus on high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls. Use disinfectant sprays or wipes to give those sneaky germs the boot. Make sure to read the directions to ensure you’re allowing the cleaning product enough time to disinfect and/or sanitize.

Practice Proper Etiquette

No, we don’t mean chewing with your mouth closed or keeping your elbows off the table. We’re talking about covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze — not your hands. This prevents the spread of germs through the air and onto surfaces.

Sneeze catch you off guard and you use your hands? Make sure you wash your hands properly to prevent the spread of germs.

At Bellomo Chiropractic we have supplements for Immune Support call us for more information.