5 Simple Ways to Stay Healthy During Cold & Flu Season

 Five straightforward suggestions for maintaining health during cold and flu season

In the winter months, flu and other respiratory viral illnesses become increasingly prevalent, but simple daily actions can help mitigate their spread, expert in infectious diseases and Associate Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) at, provides actionable advice to lower your risk and safeguard others during cold and flu season.

As the temperature drops, our daily routines are often confined indoors – at work, school, and while spending time with family and friends. These close, shared environments facilitate the transmission of viruses like influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, making respiratory illnesses more frequent in the colder months.

Though many individuals recover swiftly from these infections, they can pose greater risks for certain groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic conditions. Taking preventive measures can help diminish interruptions to daily activities and shield those who may be at greater risk.

"There’s a great deal we can incorporate into our daily habits to decrease the chances of falling ill and transmitting illness to others.  Here are five recommendations to lower your risk and assist in protecting others:

Tip 1: Vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of severe illness

Receiving vaccinations is among the most effective methods to guard against severe cases of influenza and COVID-19. Getting vaccinated diminishes your likelihood of falling ill and decreases complications if you do become unwell.

"Individuals aged six months and older are eligible for the flu vaccine each year, Your medical professional or pharmacist can help you figure out what is best for you, including if getting a COVID-19 vaccination is recommended.

Tip 2: Frequently wash hands using soap and water

This guidance may seem self-evident, but it remains true: Practicing good hand hygiene can reduce your likelihood of getting sick. "Regularly cleaning your hands is among the easiest methods to reduce the transmission of germs,

While respiratory viruses primarily transmit through the air, germs on your hands can also enter the body when you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. Regular handwashing is a straightforward means to mitigate this risk. Utilize soap and warm water whenever possible, particularly after visiting public areas or before meals. If soap and water are unavailable, alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 70% to 90% alcohol content is a suitable alternative.

Tip 3: Covering coughs and sneezes shields those nearby

Practicing good etiquette when coughing and sneezing helps prevent respiratory droplets from being expelled towards others."When you get the sensation to cough or sneeze, turn away from people nearby and shield your mouth and nose using a tissue . If a tissue is not on hand, use your elbow or the upper part of your sleeve instead of your hands.

Tip 4: Remaining at home when unwell helps minimize the spread and wearing a mask

If you’re feeling ill, staying at home whenever feasible is one of the most effective strategies to avoid transmitting viral illnesses to others. This applies to work, school, and social activities. "If you must venture out while feeling unwell, wearing a mask can help shield others,

Masks can lessen the transmission of germs from an infected person and may also offer additional protection in crowded or poorly ventilated environments.

Tip 5: Regularly cleaning shared surfaces adds additional protection

Certain viruses can persist on surfaces for varying lengths of time, making consistent cleaning a crucial preventative measure, especially in high-traffic areas. Concentrate on frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, phones, keyboards, handrails, and bathroom fixtures both at home and in communal spaces.

"Commonly touched items like phones, keyboards, and door handles should be routinely cleaned and disinfected," 

Practicing caution this cold and flu season

Flu and respiratory viruses can disrupt our daily lives, leading to missed work or school and interruptions at home. Simple, consistent practices such as vaccination, regular handwashing, staying home when sick, wearing masks, and cleaning shared areas can help minimize the spread of illness throughout the season.

By implementing these precautions, you are not only safeguarding yourself but also enhancing the safety of everyday environments for those around you.