If you have a chronic condition such as multiple sclerosis or even if you are in great health, it is important to protect against common illnesses that can ruin your holiday fun. The most prevalent things that are running around out in the world this time of year are the common cold, influenza (the flu), and pneumonia. The last two illnesses are very serious and can land you in the hospital if you are very young, elderly, pregnant, have a compromised immune system, or just happen to contract a serious case. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for people, particularly the elderly, to die from the flu or pneumonia.
The following guidelines can help you to avoid these maladies and continue to enjoy the season:
Consider getting the flu shot
If you are elderly, have a chronic condition, a compromised immune system, if you work in healthcare or in childcare, or if you just want to play it safe, consider getting a flu shot.
The flu shot is administered yearly in the fall through the winter, and it helps to prevent the influenza virus. There are many hospitals and associations that administer the shots as an all-day project, especially for seniors. A few years ago there was a shortage of flu shots, but this year that is not the case. *Always consult first with your primary care doctor before getting the flu shot.
Wash your hands
This tip seems so simple, but many people disregard hand washing. It is important to wash before meals, after using the bathroom (especially a public one), after touching something many others have also touched (door knobs, shopping carts, money, the ATM machine, etc.), and before preparing food. If you are already ill or are in contact with someone who is ill, you should also wash frequently to avoid spreading the illness.
Unfortunately, if you are out at the mall, you may not have a sink nearby to use after touching a dirty shopping cart. A great way to clean your hands in public places is to use hand sanitizer, which is an alcohol-based product that comes in small containers, like hand lotion. This product can replace hand washing when you can’t get to a sink, and it kills about 99% of germs. It’s a good idea to get a moisturizing one, since alcohol can be very drying to the skin.
Eat well, sleep well
In order to stay healthy, you need to continually refuel your tank. Part of this refueling involves eating good, vitamin-rich foods. It’s so easy to reach for the tasty junk food at this time of year. Everywhere people are eating cookies, candy, drinking egg nog, and devouring other rich foods. Try to eat a well-balanced diet rich in protein (lean meats and fish), fiber (fruits, vegs, whole-grain breads), and low-fat dairy products (yogurt, milk, low-fat cheese,etc.) These types of foods will keep you energetic and happy, and ward off illness. Plenty of fluid intake also wards off dehydration. Avoid eating too much sugar and too many processed carbs (donuts, cookies, cakes) because they will sap you of your energy and they provide little nutritional value. Save the rich stuff for the actual holidays and visits with loved ones.
Sleep is another source of fuel to keep you running at your best. The holiday season is stressful, but it’s important to get enough rest. Without proper sleep your body will crave sugar and processed carbohydrates to give it a quick energy lift. This cycle only makes a person more tired. In order to function this year, try to refrain from doing everything all at once or at the last minute. Schedule ample time for shopping and cooking. Don’t visit too many people all in one day. Try to spread out your schedule so you don’t run out of steam. Most importantly, take a nap if you’re tired and you have the time.
Avoid sick people
The best way to avoid getting sick is to avoid sick people. If you have a compromised immune system, it is even more important to follow this tip. It will be difficult, but try to avoid prolonged contact with large groups of children (in schools or day care facilities) and prolonged time in healthcare facilities such as hospitals or nursing homes. These places are where viruses and bacteria are easily spread. Sometimes it is impossible to do this, so remember to take along a hand sanitizer and wash your hands often. Also, if you know someone has a cold, don’t feel bad about visiting them once they’re well again. No one wants to spread their germs and ruin another’s holidays. This also holds true if it is you who has the cold or flu—- try not to give the unwanted present to someone else.
****For further information about receiving a flu shot, see The Mayo Clinic.
