Flu season is here, and so are its uncomfortable symptoms, such as nasal congestion, fever, cough, nausea, and vomiting. The flu virus affects different people in different ways, though young children and the elderly seem most affected by this seasonal sweep of unpleasantness.
The flu virus can be airborne, or you might contract it by touching objects like furniture, doorknobs, and countertops. Doing what you can to prevent the infection will help you and your family weather the season with your health intact. Take these helpful tips to heart to avoid a visit to the children’s urgent care in Deerfield.
1. Wash Hands Frequently
Touching commonly shared items and touching the face afterward is almost a surefire way to contract the flu. Have children wash their hands frequently at home and at school, particularly after bathroom visits and before eating. Hand sanitizer is a quick fix for when soap and water are not accessible.
2. Stay Active
Studies show that moderate physical activity can boost immunity. Kids who engage in regular physical activity have a lower incidence of colds and flu than sedentary children.
3. Sleep Well
Depending on their age, children need at least nine hours of sleep per night. Sleep deprivation can cause compromised immunity and increase the chances of becoming sick. Illnesses may be more severe, and recovery time can take longer if your body is not well-equipped to fight off infections.
4. Eat Well
Meals with quality proteins, fruits, and vegetables will also do wonders for building immunity. Foods rich in vitamins A, B, C, and D will help ward off viruses and infections. Avoid foods that are high in salt, sugar, and preservatives.
5. Focus On Destressing
Elevated stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, can lead to compromised immunity. Give your children plenty of downtime to help lower stress levels, balance life, and ward off sickness.
6. Steer Clear of Germ-sharing Opportunities
Commonly shared items, such as straws, cups, hats, and scarves, come into contact with the mouth and nose. These items should not be shared during flu season, as they can easily transmit germs and bacteria from one person to another. Keep these items out of the reach of others, and wash them regularly to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria to others.
7. Stay On Top of the Vaccine Schedule
Vaccines help to protect your children against severe illnesses and reduce the risk of serious outcomes. If they do get ill, it’s likely to be less severe, and they will have fewer long-term complications than those children who do not keep up with immunizations. Visit our walk in clinic in Deerfield Beach if you need to bring your child up to date on their vaccines for the winter.
8. Have Supplies on Hand at Home
Treatment of illnesses starts in the home. Be prepared to handle flu symptoms with the following items:
• Thermometer
• Fever reducing medication
• Breathing boosters such as humidifiers, aspirators, and vapor rub
• Hydration helpers to encourage plenty of fluids
Prompt treatment of symptoms will reduce the likelihood of a trip to the urgent care in Deerfield Beach. Keeping little ones comfortable so they can recuperate at home is the preferred way to handle any mild virus or illness.
9. Stay Home If You Are Sick
If you or other family members are ill, stay home to prevent spreading the illness to others. Look for signs and symptoms such as fever, runny nose, congestion, sore throat, and stomach upset as indicators that it’s time to retreat and rest.
10. Visit Pediatric Urgent Care Hillsboro Beach
If all your efforts to reduce the spread of influenza have failed this season, have no fear. Our walk in clinic in Deerfield Beach is ready to serve you and your family members, giving expert care and suggestions on staying healthier this season. Offering quality service to adults and children at our urgent care in Deerfield, we strive to provide the tools you need to regain your health quickly. Visit Hillsboro Urgent Care at our urgent care Deerfield Beach location, and start feeling better today!
