Autumn health tips

Summer is behind us, it is time to plan for Autumn, and prepare ourselves and family for the winter.

Autumn is the season of alternating cold and heat; and as the weather starts to change, probably the first thing that crosses our mind is the risk of getting sick.

Below are a few tips to help ensure you get through this Autumn season.

1. Protect your skin

Essential steps should be taken to prevent catching the flu and spreading it to others.

• Get vaccinated against the flu each year in Autumn especially Children, adults of 50 years and older, pregnant women, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions and health workers.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and wash your hands.
• Stay home if you get sick.

2. Keep your hands clean

• Washing your hands is an important step to take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.
• Wash your hands with soap and water; if that is not possible, use alcohol-based hand gels.

3. Stay warm

Cold temperatures can cause serious health problems, especially in infants and older adults. Being cold, depresses the immune system because your body’s resources go toward raising your temperature rather than warding off germs. Stay dry and dress warmly.

4. Dress in layers

A good way to deal with different temperature exposure is to wear layered clothing; this way you can stay warm when exposed to cold and it will be easy to adjust if you go indoors or the weather changes drastically by taking off a layer or two.

5. Rest

When you first come down with a cold or flu, it is important to stay warm and rested to help your body combat against the illness. Drinking fluids also helps prevent dehydration and keep your throat moist.

6. Antibiotics are not always the cure

• Bacterial infections can be cured by antibiotics but not the viral infections.
• Common colds and the flu are viral infections; you should avoid taking antibiotics if you catch them.
• Talk to your doctor to find out if your illness is viral or bacterial.

References

• Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Webmed
• Women's day