Take Action Against the Flu

It’s beginning to look a lot like flu season! How are you and your older loved ones staying safe this time of year?

Our team of in-home care providers at Qualicare wants to offer you some tips on how you can protect yourself from the flu virus this year. Read on as we offer some insight.

Enjoy the Holiday Season Without the Flu

When it comes to this time of year, are you really wanting to spend it inside sick with the flu? Of course not! But as we grow older, our risk of getting the flu increases, since our immune system diminishes somewhat as we age.

Therefore, it is important to know what steps you can take in order to protect yourself from the flu this year:

Get a Flu Shot

While everyone can benefit from a flu shot, older adults especially should consider getting the flu vaccine in order to protect themselves from hospitalization and other risk factors. Older adults are at a higher risk of developing the flu, and they’re also at an increased risk of developing severe side effects.

Experts recommend getting the flu shot by the end of October each year, but it’s not too late. Being vaccinated now will still provide protection.

Wash Your Hands

As self-explanatory as this tip may seem, it is extremely important to make sure you are washing your hands regularly throughout the day—probably even more than usual!

The flu virus is extremely contagious. Therefore, it is important to make sure you are washing your hands after touching doorknobs, handling food, shaking hands and using the restroom.

The flu virus is spread through airborne droplets. By washing your hands, you can decrease your chances of getting sick.

Boost the Immune System

When you think about ways to improve your health, you also want to make sure you are doing what you can to improve your immune system. Following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and sleeping enough at night are all ways you can boost your immune system and help fight the flu virus this season.

Are you looking for additional care for your loved one? Contact our in-home care providers at Qualicare to learn how we can help!