It’s that time again. Stuffy noses, bounds of tissues stuffed in our pockets, and sore throats. Between sports and school, it’s pretty much inevitable that students start to develop a common cold around the fall season.
Viruses that cause the flu and the common cold tend to thrive in colder temperatures. Allergies can also irritate our lungs and nasal passages, leaving our bodies more receptive to new bacteria. Additionally, most people like to stay indoors when the temperature changes and closer quarters allow for germs to spread easier from one person to the next when in close contact. Because of this, it’s important we get out and enjoy some fresh air!
There are five major viruses that tend to spike in the fall: Influenza, also known as the flu, the common cold, viral meningitis, bacterial meningitis, and norovirus. A usual way for people to avoid any circumstances of a virus or infection is to vaccinate. Medical professionals say the best time to receive a vaccination is right before Halloween. This allows your body to gradually develop protection against the virus before it spreads. However, vaccines are available throughout the season and can be obtained through a doctor or pharmacy. If you’re unsure whether you want to get one, consider that getting your flu shot will reduce your chances by fifty or sixty percent.
Close quarters, cold weather, and the spread of viruses occur during the early months of school. It’s crucial we take precautions to avoid the possibility of becoming sick. Developing a habitual process of washing your hands, especially before you eat, is just one of the many provisions we must take in order to stay healthy. Receiving a yearly vaccine, covering your mouth when you sneeze, and drinking plenty of water is just as important.
It’s hard to maintain a proper amount of sleep during the school year. Whether it’s studying for benchmarks, finishing homework, or coming home late from a sports game. However, sleep can be incredibly useful in allowing your body to fight off illness. It may be tempting to stay awake some nights, but our body and health should always come first!
Even though getting some sort of cold or flu seems inevitable, trusting these tried-and-true methods will give you a much better chance of staying healthy throughout the season.
Featured image credit: Winnipeg Free Press