Tips to Flu-Proof Your Home

The flu is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. Although it resolves on its own in most cases, the flu makes many people sick enough to miss work and school. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take at home to help keep your family healthy and prevent the flu virus from spreading.

Get vaccinated. Flu season in the Philippines is from June to November. The Department of Health (DOH) recommends getting the annual flu vaccine from February to June. The flu vaccine is the best available way to prevent flu and reduce the risk of serious illness.

Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Handwashing is an effective way to prevent many common infections. You can also use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing and coughing. Throw the used tissue in the trash bin and wash your hands immediately. The flu virus is spread via respiratory droplets from an infected person through coughing, talking and sneezing.

Limit contact with family members who have the flu. Provide a separate bedroom for the infected family member. Do not share eating utensils, dishes, towels and other personal items.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home. These include tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles (fridge, microwave oven, electric oven, faucet, shower, etc.), desks, phones, keyboards, tablets, TV remote controls, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

Stock up on sick day essentials. It’s a good idea to stock up on essential items you may need if anyone in your family becomes sick. These include pain and fever medications, cough medicines, nasal decongestants, throat lozenges, anti-diarrhea medications, vitamins, sports drinks or oral rehydration solution, and toilet paper, among others.

Shop for your sick day essentials at Watsons now! Click here to start shopping!

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/flu-proof-home#get-vaccinated. Accessed 24 April 2020

https://bmcinfectdis.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12879-016-2087-9. Accessed 24 April 2020

https://www.doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Influenza. Accessed 24 April 2020

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/spotlights/2017-2018/vaccine-reduces-risk-severe-illness.htm. Accessed 24 April 2020

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/symptoms-causes/syc-20351719. Accessed 24 April 2020

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html. Accessed 24 April 2020

https://www.healthline.com/health/stocking-up-for-covid-19#sick-day-essentials. Accessed 24 April 2020

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