Prevention of seasonal flu
See how to protect yourself from flu and colds
The flu and cold can be prevented. With these simple but effective tips you can avoid cough, runny nose and fever.
Experts still cannot fully explain why the flu breaks out every year precisely in winter. Studies have so far shown that flu viruses thrive and multiply in cold temperatures and dry air. Also our immunity is less effective under these conditions and the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract becomes more susceptible to infection.
Why is the flu so contagious?
Influenza viruses are spread from one body to another through droplet infection, for example through sneezing, talking, coughing or kissing. However, pathogens can also remain on contact surfaces such as doorknobs for a certain period of time and then reach the mucous membranes through the hand, for example when touching the mouth or nose. Once infected, the flu usually breaks out after a day or two and lasts up to a week. Typical symptoms are high fever, headache and body aches, weakness, dry cough and chills.
How long is the flu contagious?
The flu can be contagious a day before the first symptoms appear. The rule of thumb also applies: the more severe the symptoms, the more contagious you are to other people.
These 8 daily tips offer the best protection against seasonal flu:
- Wash your hands not only regularly, but also thoroughly with warm water and soap - especially before cooking, eating or after going to the toilet.
- Keep your hands away from your face and never touch your mouth, eyes or nose with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with sick people and keep a distance of at least 2 meters. If someone is sick with the flu at home, you should make sure they are physically separated and keep common areas such as the kitchen or bathroom especially clean.
- Keep mucous membranes as moist as possible. Avoid dry, hot rooms, ventilate your home well and regularly and drink plenty of water.
- Try not to shake hands during flu months. Tip: A tap on the shoulder is also acceptable as a friendly greeting.
- Strengthen her immune system you with nutritional supplements. The vitamins that strengthen our immunity are vitamin C and D3 and from metals zinc among other things, it helps to defend our body. Herbs that contribute directly to strengthening the immune system are the well-known echinacea, which is administered at the onset of symptoms and should be avoided by people with autoimmune diseases.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Vitamins A, C and B6 protect particularly well against the flu virus.
- Anyone who gets the flu stays home until they recover. Your sick colleague is a danger to everyone else in the office.
