Flu season is here. Every year Americans miss almost 111 million workdays because of the flu. Approximately 5-10% of the population will get the flu this year. Here are the top five ways to prevent the flu and stay healthy:
1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Staying away from people who are sick is a great way to avoid exposure to the flu. If you are sick, try to work from home to avoid spreading the germs to others.
2. Get vaccinated
This is the number one way to prevent contracting the flu. Get the flu vaccine early to help prevent getting sick.
3. Wash your hands frequently
Wash your hands after touching communal surfaces such as doorknobs, water fountains, and handrails. These surfaces are often where most germs live. If you are unable to wash your hands, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
4. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose
Germs enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you touch your face after using a contaminated surface, you are likely introducing the flu germs to your system.
5. Clean and sanitize your office or work space
Germs can live on hard surfaces for days such as on computer keyboards and phones. It’s important to disinfect your workspace and keep your area clean. This becomes especially important if you work in an office setting with other people.
