Welcome back to part 4 of my series on Cold and Flu Prevention: Break the Chain of Infection. You can read the rest of the series in the archives under Wellness Wednesday.
The 4th link in the Chain of Infection is the Mode of Transmission. This means the way in which the germ is spread. This can be direct via human to human, or indirectly by a vector, ie animal. Since I am talking about Cold and Flu it would be directly by close association with an infected individual. Hugging, kissing, and even handshakes can be considered a close association. Picking up soiled tissues, or touching surfaces infected by dirty hands are good examples, as well as sneezing, coughing and sometimes just talking.
Ways to break this link are good and frequent hand-washing, cleaning and disinfecting daily areas that are prone to become contaminated, isolation- stay home if you have symptoms, get your Flu shot if you are immunocompromised or advised by your doctor, carry hand-sanitizer for when you can’t wash your hands, wash hands immediately after touching contaminated surfaces, use gloves if you can when picking up soiled tissues or use a clean tissue to guard your hands and wash hands immediately after, keep your hands away from your face, be sure you are using good germ etiquette too such as covering mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Also, keep in mind that by keeping yourself as healthy as possible your body may be able to fight off the Cold and Flu. Good sleep, a good diet, avoid added sugar, take Vitamin D or get sunlight, avoid and manage stress, get fresh air- at least 15 minutes a day are all great ways to keep your immune system as healthy as possible. If you would like to learn more about any of these use the contact form below to message me for a free Meet and Greet.
Don’t forget to check out my monthly challenge, and next year’s Walk 2020 starting on January 1st.
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