Make the Flu Stop with You

A healthy diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise and good hygiene are the building blocks of a healthy body. Whether preparing for a possible flu pandemic or simply protecting yourself from a common cold, the following guidelines are your first defense against sickness.

• Avoid close contact with people who have any symptoms of sickness. Avoid any unnecessary situations where you are in close quarters with a lot of people.
• Stay home when you are sick. As difficult as it sometimes is to call in sick with your busy schedule, it is crucial in stopping the spread of disease. Take care of yourself and be considerate of others by staying home from work or school and avoiding unnecessary errands. Let your sickness stop with you.
• Cover your mouth and nose. Use a tissue to cough or sneeze into and throw it in the trash afterward. If you don't have a tissue handy, cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm or your upper sleeve; not into your hands. This is a good habit to maintain even when you don't think you are sick.
• Wash your hands often. Use warm running water and soap. Rub hands for at least 20 seconds, getting both sides of the hands, under any rings, watches or other jewelry and under your fingernails. Dry with a blower or a paper towel. If possible, use a paper towel to turn off the water and open the bathroom door. Then throw it away.
  • When should you wash your hands?
    • Before preparing food
    • After eating
    • After going to the bathroom
    • After changing a diaper
    • After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
    • After handling garbage
    • After handling an animal or its waste
    • Before and after caring for someone who is sick
    • Before and after treating a cut or wound
  • If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer until you can get to soap and water. It's a great idea to keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you.
• Avoid touching your nose and mouth. Many germs are spread when a person touches a contaminated surface, and then touches the mouth or nose. Biting nails and sucking the thumb are important habits to kick in order to stay healthy.
• Practice other good health habits. Get enough rest, drink plenty of water, and eat healthy, whole, vegetarian foods. Exercise on a daily basis. Good health begins with a strong body and immune system. Take care of your body with your daily activities. Supplements are sometimes a good idea as well. DTE has a wide range of immune-strengthening supplements in our wellness department. Ask our trained staff what they can recommend for you.