From a discreet tickle in the throat to a relentless “COLD,” coughing is a reflex we can’t resist. Though these odd noises that come up the respiratory tract and out the mouth are wordless, they have plenty to tell.
Weather change usually brings lung infections - most commonly cough and cold. Most people dread the change of seasons from one temperature to another because of the fear of how their body will react to the weather change.
The more affected age groups are the children and the elderly. Read on to find tips to prep for seasonal change and the cold and flu it brings along.
HOW TO PREVENT AND TACKLE SEASONAL COLD/FLU:
1. Hygiene etiquette: A critical time to practice good hygiene etiquette is when you are sick, especially when coughing or sneezing.
2. Avoid touching your face after touching contaminated objects.
3. To help stop the spread of germs: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Put your used tissues in a wastebasket. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve and not your hands.
4. Remember to wash your hands after coughing or sneezing: Wash with soap and water. Keeping hands clean through improved hand hygiene is one of the most important steps you can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.
5. Maintain a distance of approximately 1 meter from a person suffering from cold.
6. A common fact is that vitamin C cures cold or flu symptoms. On the contrary, vitamin C cuts back on the duration of your flu. Citrus fruits like oranges and vegetables like spinach are a good source of vitamin C.
7. Protein is essential to build cells, build muscles and improve immunity. Protein protects the cell from viruses; therefore include in your diet.
8. Lack of vitamin D can make you a prime candidate for catching seasonal flu. Vitamin D plays an important role in boosting immunity and stimulating antimicrobial compounds, thereby reducing your chances of contracting cold and flu. Soak in the sun before eight and after four, and consume cheese, milk, fish and cereals for vitamin D.
9. Consume a lot of water to make sure that flu causing virus is tackled and flushed out from your body. Water is one of the best ingredients to keep you healthy all year round.
10. Yoga is also a good way to ensure the prevention of seasonal flu.
11. Your body needs to rejuvenate so it is important for people to get enough sleep. Sleep well to prevent seasonal flu.
12. Flossing and brushing the teeth help improve oral hygiene and prevents gum diseases. Gargling and rinsing the mouth reduces the chances of infection.
13. Get yourself vaccinated by Influenza vaccination; it is the best way to reduce your risk of getting sick with seasonal flu and spreading it to others.
While you are spreading joy and goodwill, be careful that you are not spreading GERMS as well.