5 Simple Tips to Keep Your Family Healthy During Cold and Flu Season
NHA Communications TeamNHA Communications Team
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Cold and flu season is here, and keeping your family healthy is easier than you think. Here are five quick tips from Quinn McGill, a registered nurse and expert on family health, to help prevent the spread of germs.
1. Wash Hands Often
Handwashing is the number one way to keep germs away! Teach kids to wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (try singing a song to make it fun!). Always wash hands before eating and after using the bathroom.
2. Cover Coughs and Sneezes
Remind everyone to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Toss used tissues right away and follow up with handwashing to stop germs in their tracks.
3. Don’t Share Personal Items
Sharing drinks, silverware, or other personal items is an easy way to spread germs. Encourage kids to keep these items to themselves, especially at school or other busy places.
4. Stay Home if You’re Sick
If anyone in the family isn’t feeling well, it’s best to stay home to rest and recover. Common signs to look for are fever, a sore throat, or a persistent cough. Wait until symptoms are gone for at least 24 hours before heading back to school or work.
5. Get the Flu Vaccine
Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to prevent serious illness. The ideal time for the vaccine is in the fall, but anytime is better than not at all. With these five tips, you can help keep your family healthy and hopefully avoid a season of sniffles.
1. Wash Hands Often
Handwashing is the number one way to keep germs away! Teach kids to wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (try singing a song to make it fun!). Always wash hands before eating and after using the bathroom.
2. Cover Coughs and Sneezes
Remind everyone to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing. Toss used tissues right away and follow up with handwashing to stop germs in their tracks.
3. Don’t Share Personal Items
Sharing drinks, silverware, or other personal items is an easy way to spread germs. Encourage kids to keep these items to themselves, especially at school or other busy places.
4. Stay Home if You’re Sick
If anyone in the family isn’t feeling well, it’s best to stay home to rest and recover. Common signs to look for are fever, a sore throat, or a persistent cough. Wait until symptoms are gone for at least 24 hours before heading back to school or work.
5. Get the Flu Vaccine
Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to prevent serious illness. The ideal time for the vaccine is in the fall, but anytime is better than not at all. With these five tips, you can help keep your family healthy and hopefully avoid a season of sniffles.