Protect Your Family: 5 Healthy Habits To Prevent Colds And Flu

Are a lot of people you know getting sick lately? It must be because the cold and flu season has already begun! According to the Department of Health (DOH), the Philippines' flu season starts in October and peaks in January and February.

The busyness of holidays can come with increased stress levels and a decline in your everyday healthy habits of proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise, weakening your immune system and making you more prone to getting sick.

No one wants to be sick during this season so we've compiled a list of tips to help you avoid catching colds and flu this season. 

5 colds and flu prevention tips  

1. Wash your hands regularly.

Frequent hand washing is a simple method for preventing the spread of infectious illnesses and maintaining health. Rub your hands with soap and warm water for as long as it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice. It helps to keep a small bottle of soap in your bag handy which your family can use if there's none readily available where you are.

2. Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

If you touch a shared surface, like a doorknob or table, you may come into contact with flu germs. These areas are filled with germs and bacteria, so make sure to wash your hands first to help you avoid getting sick! You may also opt to mask up especially for young kids who might find it difficult to avoid touching their nose and mouth.

P59 for 50 pieces, available on Lazada and Shopee

3. Disinfect surfaces and shared toys.

Cold and flu viruses spread on unclean and frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, kitchen counters, light switches, etc. It's not enough to keep them clean, as germs may still be left behind that can make you sick. Disinfection with a trusted disinfectant spray is also key. Use Lysol Disinfectant Spray–the #1 choice by Smart Parenting moms and dads this 2023 and the #1 Disinfectant Spray in the Philippines (based on Nielsen Retail Sales Value). You can disinfect frequently-used soft surfaces like the couch, stuffed toys, school bags, and shoes with it too.

Tip: Disinfect toys your kids share with their friends and relatives to reduce chances of passing on germs.

 

 

Available on Lazada and Shopee.

RELATED: Household Heroes: Smart Parenting Awards 2023 Products We Love For The Home Winners

4. Get enough sleep 

It can be easy to focus on disinfection when avoiding the flu virus, but keeping your immune system strong is just as crucial. A considerable part of this is ensuring you get enough sleep each night. Get at least 8 hours of sleep to keep your body ready to fight illness-causing germs. 

RELATED: Team No Sleep No More! 10 Online Finds For That Well-Deserved Rest

5. Build a healthy lifestyle. 

To stay healthy and strong, you must eat right, exercise, and visit the doctor regularly. Keeping your immune system working optimally is crucial, especially during flu season. Give it the boost it needs with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables packed with essential vitamins. It is also important to exercise regularly to keep your body strong and fit. Regular visits to the doctor will help ensure your health stays in tip-top shape! 

Tip: Make it a family activity and find ways to get active together with your kids. Play a sport, try a dance game on your gaming console, or introduce them to your fitness routine of choice.

It's that time of year again when the busy season is upon us. Kids are back to school. People are out and about preparing for the festivities. Family members are preparing to travel back home for the holidays.

But with all the excitement that comes and the hustle and bustle, it's easy to forget about the germs or getting sick. It's also the worst season to get sick and miss school, travel, or family gatherings. With these five tips, you can ensure your family is safe, healthy, and happy.