Protect Yourself Against Flu This Rainy Season

Flu is one of several illnesses common during the rainy season. In the Philippines, the rainy season usually starts around the middle of May and can extend up to October.

Caused by the influenza virus, the respiratory infection is spread through droplets when a person with the flu coughs, talks and sneezes, as well as through contact with the surfaces, material and clothing contaminated with discharges of an infected person. Common flu signs and symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, and muscle or joint pains.

Here are expert tips on how to protect yourself against flu this rainy season:

Get your flu shot. The single best way to reduce the risk of flu and its potentially serious complications is to get the flu vaccine each year, preferably anytime from February to June.

Avoid close contact with people who have flu. If you have flu, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.

Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home and do not report for work, do not go to school, and do not go on errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

Wash your hands often. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent the spread of germs.

Practice other good health habits. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is sick with the flu. Get adequate sleep, exercise regularly, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Consult your doctor for more information on flu prevention and vaccination.

Shop at Watsons for your vitamins, supplements, prescription medications, and other essential healthcare needs. Flu and Pneumonia vaccines are also available. Check Watsons vaccination schedules now!

References:
https://doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Influenza#:~:text=Influenza%20vaccination%20preferably%20to%20be,Avoid%20crowded%20places. Accessed 28 July 2022
https://doh.gov.ph/press-release/DOH-Warns-Against-Possible-Outbreak-of-W.I.L.D.-Disease-Following-Consecutive-Typhoons. Accessed 28 July 2022
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/actions-prevent-flu.htm. Accessed 28 July 2022