We have officially entered the “flu season.” Medical experts report that they are expecting some confusion in the coming months as cases of the flu emerge at the same time as the number of people, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, who test positive for COVID-19 increases throughout the US.
Although 54.9% of the total U.S. population is now vaccinated against COVID-19, the number of “breakthrough” cases is rapidly increasing. Breakthrough cases refer to when an individual who is fully vaccinated tests positive for COVID-19.
So, is there anything you can do to stop yourself from getting sick? Nothing is guaranteed, but there are some things you can easily do during the normal course of your day to increase your chances of staying healthy. According to the CDC, you can:
- Wash Your Hands: Hands should be washed with soap and clean running water for 20 seconds.
- Wear a Face Covering: Continuing to wear masks in public and indoor gatherings with unvaccinated people will help slow the spread of COVID-19.
- Get Your Flu and COVID Vaccines: Getting an annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from contracting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time this fall.
- Practice Social Distancing: Continue to stay 6 feet apart from people who are not from your household in both indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Get Enough Sleep: Get at least 7 hours of sleep each night.
- Drink Water: Drink water instead of sugary or alcoholic drinks to reduce calories.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, hats, and sunglasses, and wear broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15.
- Exercise: Adults should include 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity into their schedules every week.
- Eat Healthy: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products in your meal plans.
For more information and tips, contact ACCESS Nursing Services, 212-286-9200 or visit www.accessnursing.com.
