10 Tips to Keep Your Family Flu-Free This Season

The kiddos and I were at the pediatrician’s office recently for Luke’s four-year-old well child checkup. What an experience! While we were there, the pediatrician mentioned that they had just gotten their shipment in of the nasal flu mist. It was then that I realized … flu season is just around the corner!

Flu season isn’t the only time of year you can get the flu, but it’s the “season” when the flu is more prevalent. Flu season varies depending on where you live, but for most of the United States, it typically starts in late fall and last through early spring. According to www.flufacts.com, approximately 5 to 20 percent of the population gets the seasonal flu. That’s a lot of people!

Last year, right after the kids all got their nasal flu mist, Jeremy came down with the flu. I hadn’t gotten my flu vaccine yet, and he was even scheduled to get his the very next week. Too late! I was so thankful that none of the kids got sick. The flu can be dangerous, and at the least uncomfortable for sure. Whether you prefer the nasal flu mist or the flu vaccine, or neither, there are several ways you can help keep your family flu-free this flu season!

1. Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently.
2. Use hand sanitizer before and after trips to public places like the doctor’s office, play areas at fast food restaurants, grocery stores, etc.
3. Take vitamins (especially vitamin C).
4. Eat healthy. Fruits and vegetable contain vital vitamins your immune system needs to stay strong and resilient.
5. Don’t share cups, straws, or eating utensils with anyone.
6. Avoid contact with people who are suffering from flu-like symptoms.
7. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough.
8. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible to prevent the spread of germs.
9. Get plenty of sleep.
10. Exercise!

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