During these months of temperature changes, our body is more sensitive to viruses that can affect our well-being, especially when we do not follow a healthy lifestyle that helps us strengthen our defenses. In this article, we will discuss with you some habits that can help you prevent the flu.

Let us remember that the flu is one of the most common viruses in the world, which can affect any age and can be easily transmitted through the air, such as when a sick person sneezes, coughs, or even touches a healthy person.

The flu usually lasts about 3 to 7 active days and can cause symptoms that are easily recognizable, such as runny nose, sneezing, coughing, among others. Since it is a highly contagious virus, it is always a good idea to stay informed about habits that help you avoid it, so you can stay healthy during the flu season.

If you have any flu symptoms, or think you may be infected and need medical attention, Formé can help. Schedule an appointment today, or call 914-723-4900 so our medical staff can provide you with the quality care you deserve.

Why do cold seasons increase my risk for the flu?

While the flu is a virus that can be spread year-round, there are certain months when cases tend to increase, due to a number of factors that can make people more prone to the flu.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu season in the United States is usually observed between the months that span the fall and winter seasons. But why does this happen – does the cold have anything to do with it?

Well, partly yes, and normally when the coldest seasons of the year begin and temperatures drop, the mucous membrane of our nose dries out, making it weaker and more susceptible to any virus that tries to enter our body, while on the other hand, the influenza virus has a cover that becomes more resistant with the cold.

All these series of processes make it much easier to catch the flu during these months. Therefore, in the United States, this time is known as flu season. In fact, between October 1 and 22, 2022, the CDC estimates that there are between 880,000 and 2,200,000 flu patients in the country.

How can the flu be prevented?

During flu season, it is important to adapt to our lives a series of habits that can help us keep our bodies healthy, especially when we are in contact with a person who possibly has the virus.

Some of the most common practices to prevent the flu are:

• Limit contact with sick people. This advice applies especially to people who are said to be “at risk”: pregnant women, the elderly, people with a chronic illness, very young children.
• Wear a surgical mask when in contact with sick people or for family members who do not wish to contract the virus. The mask should be changed every 4 hours.
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or, failing that, with a hydroalcoholic solution. This advice is valid for people who are sick as well as for those who are not.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. This can be done with your elbow or a handkerchief, or even your hand. Wash your hands after each coughing or sneezing attack.
• Maintain a healthy diet. This will allow you to keep your body’s defenses up, helping to prevent the flu much more efficiently.
• Exercise your body regularly. Exercise is also an excellent way to keep your body healthy and fit, and you can also increase your immune system, which will allow you to fight the symptoms that the flu virus can cause.

Keep in mind that other things can also increase your risk of contracting the flu virus, such as stress and lack of sleep. Be sure to lead a calm and healthy life to avoid getting the flu in your body.

Do you need medical assistance? At Formé, we can help you.

If you have symptoms such as fever, coughing, sneezing, headaches, muscle aches, chills, and extreme tiredness, you are probably sick with the flu virus. At Formé, we have a medical team that can provide you with safe, quality care that will get you back to health without complications.

Schedule your appointment now, or call 914-723-4900. Our staff will be happy to assist you in stabilizing your health and well-being.