As the winter rolls in, so does the risk of developing a cold period anyone who’s ever made it through a winter before knows that they risk runny noses, sniffling, and of course potentially pesky cough, this can be frustrating, to say the least, particularly if you have multiple people in your household.
As everyone in your home catches an illness at different times, you can find yourself in for a long stretch of cold season. The good news is that with the right strategies, you can avoid getting sick and losing precious time off work. Here are some of the most effective strategies for protecting yourself from germs this winter.
Stay Warm
Perhaps one of the biggest reasons for people falling ill in the winter is quite literally catching a cold. Staying warm is essential if you hope to steer clear of illness. So, if you don’t have double-paned windows or your home isn’t well-insulated, make sure that you make the right efforts to stay warm regardless.
Put on a few extra layers, use a fuzzy blanket, and make use of your heaters. The same goes for whenever you go outside. Make sure that you wear a scarf and of course that you cover your ears with the hat. The simple act of staying warm can increase your chances of staying healthy significantly, so make an effort to stay toasty.
Avoid Contact With Sick People
It’s incredibly simple, yet also incredibly effective— avoid sick people! It’s as simple as staying away from people who are infected. If anyone you know has a cold, try to avoid any contact with them until they get better. If you must see them, ideally keep a window open, or wear a mask. Cold viruses are often spread through the air, so standing a little far away and wearing a mask can make a significant difference in your chances of getting ill.
Stay Physically Active
Staying active has a multitude of health benefits. For one, it boosts the immune system. When you stay physically active whether you go jogging do yoga or even dance, you increase your blood circulation which helps your immune cells move throughout your body. In turn, this helps your body identify and fight off infections. However, in the winter, outdoor exercise isn’t always possible. So, try to find ways to get a workout in without having to go into the cold.
Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands regularly is a critical part of staying healthy. It’s as simple as washing your hands a few times throughout the day, particularly if you go outside. If you don’t have any hot water or soap nearby, then it’s as simple as carrying around a little hand sanitizer with you. This won’t just help you stay healthy but also avoid spreading the germs to others.