Welcome to fall. It’s the time of year that nearly everyone you know is starting to get sick. And you get sick. It starts with feeling run down, then you get sneezy, achy, a fever might pop up and the next thing you know, you are sick. Is there anything you can do to prevent getting sick? Let’s explore further!
The number one way to prevent getting sick is to wash your hands. Seems so simple but you would be surprised how many people don’t do it. You can’t actually wash your hands too many times. Need a few reminders when it’s good to wash your hands? Here are a few:
- Before and after you eat a meal
- After you use the toilet
- Before you touch your face, mouth or nose or touch any opening to your body
- If you have kids – after you change a diaper or help your child wipe
- Before and after you prepare food
- When you walk in from being outdoors or from anywhere with the general public
What is the best way to wash your hands?
It is recommended to use soap and water. Simply turn on the water (warm is preferred), put soap on your hands, vigorously wash your hands together scrubbing your fingers, in between your fingers, your wrist and your fingernails for approximately 30 seconds or for as long as it takes for you to sing “happy birthday”. Then rinse off the soap, turn off the water, dry your hands with a paper towel and throw the paper towel away.
For a fun fact, soap and water actually do a better job of washing hands than hand sanitizer!
In addition to washing your hands, here are a few other ways that you can help prevent getting sick:
- Make sure that you are getting enough rest (it is recommended to get 8-10 hours each night)
- Make sure you are drinking enough water
- Try to eat plenty of veggies and fruit
- Try to relax. Take a deep breath every now and then. Go to bed 5 minutes early and try to calm your mind.
- Try to avoid busy places such as airports and shopping malls. These places are full of germs! If you do visit one, make sure to wash your hands when you get home.
One last tip is that if you do happen to get sick, feel free to reach out to us. We would like to help you feel better! We are here for you! Here’s to hoping you have a fun and healthy fall.
At Carlos and Parnell, M.D., P.A. our professional and caring staff makes the difference with patient care. – See more at: http://www.dev.carlosparnellmd.com/thermometers-and-babies/#sthash.MFvVROkI.dpuf
