How to prevent flu this fall
With flu season now underway, prevention is key to avoiding sickness and limiting the spread of respiratory viruses at home, work and school.
Evernorth Care Group is here to help ensure you and your loved ones stay happy and healthy all season long. Here are some helpful tips we recommend to help prevent flu.
Get your annual flu shots early
Getting vaccinated against flu at the start of flu season is an important way to prevent you and your family from becoming sick. There are many forms of flu vaccines, but the most typical form is an annual flu shot, administered at your local clinic, pharmacy or health department. It’s recommended for anyone six months or older to get vaccinated starting in September or October.
Practice good hygiene
Infectious germs, bacteria and viruses are everywhere. Practicing good hygiene habits can help reduce your chances of contracting flu or other illnesses that typically spread through direct contact with germs:
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth
- Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue
- Clean and disinfect surfaces, focusing on high-touch areas like doorknobs
Build healthy habits to boost your immune system
By building better habits to support mind-body health, you’ll have a reduced risk of becoming seriously ill, even if you contract flu. Eating a balanced diet that’s rich in essential nutrients, staying physically active, getting 7-9 hours of sleep per night and managing stress are all ways you can build a healthier immune system to fight against flu.
Stay mindful of those who are immunocompromised
Immunocompromised individuals are people who have weakened immune systems, and therefore are at higher risk of severe illness if they contract flu. This can include:
- People aged 65 or older
- Pregnant women
- Individuals undergoing cancer treatment
- Those with primary immunodeficiency (PI)
- Organ transplant recipients
If you or someone in your family are immunocompromised, extra precautions should be taken to prevent spread of flu—such as physical distancing when you are sick or wearing a mask to limit airborne germs.
You can learn more about limiting the spread of respiratory viruses in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Respiratory Virus Guidance.
Book your annual flu shot at Evernorth Care Group
Evernorth Care Group has flu clinics available starting September 1st at all locations. Click here to find a location near you. To make an appointment, call 800.233.3264 or click here.