Around ten percent of the population gets flu every year. Many more experience a common cold during the wintertime.

During the winter season, the number of people getting sick can increase by more than 25 percent.

And yet, you shouldn’t think about getting flu or a cold as totally random. While you cannot rule out getting sick, there are many cold and flu precautions you can take.

Check out our tips for how to protect yourself from the flu this winter. Let’s get started below!

1. Ask Your GP for a Flu Vaccination

Fewer than half of Americans say that they’re getting a flu shot this year.

Are you eager to prevent yourself from getting flu? The flu shot is probably the most effective way to ensure you don’t come down with anything.

If you’re an adult under the age of 65 the flu shot has a 60 percent success rate on ensuring that you don’t get flu.

You get this vaccine at your GP or local pharmacy. Make sure to get the shot as early as possible as the winter sets in.

2. Ensure You Wash Your Hands Regularly

Washing your hands regularly is a simple and effective way to stop the spread of disease. However, around 97 percent of people don’t wash their hands properly.

You need to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Whenever you come into contact with someone else or before eating, it’s important to wash your hands.

3. Get Enough Sleep During the Nights

Around one in three Americans don’t get enough sleep. When you lack sleep, your immune system won’t be quite as strong.

Therefore, if you’re exhausted constantly, you’re not going to be as resilient against the threat of flu and colds.

You need to make sure you get to sleep early. That’s around seven to nine hours per night to ensure you’re refreshed for the next day.

If you struggle to fall asleep, you need to try some techniques to improve your sleep patterns. This includes drinking chamomile tea to avoiding screens before bed.

4. Stay Physically Active in the Winter

Did you know than more than 80 percent of Americans say that they don’t get enough exercise? During the winter months, people exercise even less. The cold weather and the gloomy mood keep us indoors.

When you’re not working out as much, you’re making yourself more vulnerable to the development of flu and colds.

Physical activity is part of a healthy lifestyle. It’s also an important way to prevent yourself from getting sick during the cold…
 
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