Your health is one of the most important aspects of your life. Therefore, it’s vital to protect yourself from diseases like the flu every season! Below are some of the many ways you can protect yourself, your home, and your family from the flu.
Improve Humidity Levels
According to a study, influenza has an infection rate between 70% and 77% when there is less humidity indoors. However, increasing humidity levels above 43% drop that rate between 14% and 22%! You can improve your home’s humidity levels by using a humidifier, especially during cold and dry winter months. In addition, you can ask an HVAC repair company to inspect your home’s air conditioning to make sure it is properly ventilating the humidity.
Get Vaccinated
Getting your flu shot is one of the most important ways to protect yourself from getting the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months of age or older get their annual vaccine as soon as possible. This will help reduce your risk of getting the flu and spreading it to other family members.
Keep in mind that the flu vaccine changes every year. That’s because new strains are more dominant each year. It’s vital to get vaccinated against the flu yearly for the best protection. Most clinics and pharmacies offer free flu vaccines as well.
Repair Your Plumbing
Heat and moisture are the two most common issues for engineers who design piping. Unfortunately, during the winter, plumbing can freeze and burst, which can help the spread of influenza. By making sure all your plumbing is in good condition and free of leaks or other issues, you can help reduce the spread of the flu.
For instance, if your plumbing isn’t working, you might be less inclined to wash your hands at home. Washing hands is one of the easiest life hacks to prevent the spread of the flu. Even washing your hands at home can help reduce the spread of the flu virus. To wash your hands, use warm soap and water and lather for 20 seconds. Then, rinse off and dry with a clean towel.
Encourage Good Hygiene
Another way to protect your family from the flu is by encouraging good hygiene among your children. For instance, encourage them to wash their hands often, use hand sanitizer, and cover their coughs using the inside of their elbow. It’s also crucial to keep children at home if they are sick. This will help reduce the risk of them spreading their illness to other children, who may be more vulnerable.
Update Your Home Equipment
A furnace can last between 15 to 20 years if properly maintained. However, during the winter and flu season, it’s important to check that your furnace is working properly and not causing excessive moisture. You should also make sure your air conditioner filters are regularly replaced, as this can help reduce the chances of spreading the flu. Finally, actively cleaning your home with a vacuum can help cut down on dust mites and other allergens that may carry the flu virus.
Wear Masks
Face masks are great for protecting yourself and others from the flu. When you wear a mask, it creates an effective barrier that helps keep aerosols and other airborne particles away from your nose and mouth. It’s best to use masks with three layers of protection to ensure maximum effectiveness. To help protect your life and that of those around you, wear masks to prevent the flu.
Finally, make sure your family members practice social distancing when in public spaces. This will help reduce their chances of coming into contact with someone who may be sick.
By taking steps such as improving humidity levels in your home, getting vaccinated, repairing plumbing issues, and encouraging good hygiene among your family, you can help protect yourself and those around you from getting the flu this season.
