LIST
How Not To Get Sick This Season
Yes, it’s flu season, and your co-worker in the next cubicle is
hacking ominously away, but there are things you can do to
avoid catching his bug. For a list of health-promoting practices,
we went to THERESA SOROKO, MD; she is an infectious disease
specialist affiliated with Hackensack UMC Mountainside,
now part of the Hackensack Meridian Health network. No
guarantees, but if you try these, you have a better chance
of getting through the winter unscathed.
EIGHT TIPS FOR A HEALTHIER WINTER
YOUR BEST SHOT
TIME FOR A TUNE-UP
Get a flu shot from your physician,
at your workplace or a pharmacy that
offers them. It’s the Number One thing
you can do to prevent getting the flu.
Maintain yearly medical checkups
with your physician so you can learn
about other vaccinations – for example,
to prevent pneumonia and meningitis –
that may be appropriate for your age or
particular needs.
WASHING ON THE GO
Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
in your pocket, and wash your hands
with it frequently. Use it for everything
but bathroom breaks, when you should
scrub thoroughly with soap and water.
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
GERM-FREE SURFACES
Keep your surroundings clean by
wiping them down with alcohol.
If you plan to journey abroad over the
holidays, visit your doctor beforehand
to get the vaccinations the CDC
recommends before visiting your
chosen destinations.
LIFESTYLE COUNTS
Keep your immune system as strong as
possible with a healthy diet, plenty of
rest and exercise.
Viruses cling to bare hands, so avoid
muffling coughs and sneezes with them.
Instead, use tissues when they’re available, and when they’re not, cough and
sneeze into the inside of your elbow.
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MONTCLAIR MAGAZINE HOLIDAY 2016
KEEP A HEALTHY DISTANCE
Cold and flu viruses enter your body
through your nose, eyes and mouth, so
if someone near you is obviously sick,
move your desk or seat as far away from
them as possible. If you’re sick, work
from home.
THINKSTOCK
THE ELBOW TECHNIQUE