7 Ways to Protect Yourself from the Flu

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There’s no denying that the cold, winter months are here to stay for a little while. Want to stay healthy? Here are 7 ways to protect yourself from the flu this year.

7 Ways to Protect Yourself From the Flu

Make that appointment and get your flu shot. The sooner you get in to get this done, the better. Don’t make an appointment with your doctor for a vaccination. Make an appointment at a CVS Pharmacy or MinuteClinic location. Vaccination coverage is available under most health insurance plans and CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic accept more than 5,000 health plans. Your out-of-pocket cost for vaccinations, if any, will depend on your specific insurance plan.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. This probably seems like a given, but if you see someone sneezing or coughing, keep your distance. This goes for friends and family, as well as visitors.

Wash your hands constantly. Without even knowing it, you could be picking up the flu virus when you open a door, or switch on a light. The flu virus is lurking at every turn and if you’re not careful, you’ll be the next victim.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. It may seem a little weird, but these areas allow germs to get in. While the flu is spread by coughing, sneezing, and even talking, the flu virus can survive for a few hours or even a day on surfaces and in enclosed spaces. The most common way the flu virus is spread is when hands that have been in contact with contaminated surfaces go near the face. That’s why you should wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based cleanser.

Stay home when you are sick. A recent CVS Pharmacy consumer flu survey found that nearly two in three (65 percent) of employed Americans would still go to work even if they were feeling ill with flu-like symptoms. It’s important to understand the preliminary symptoms of the flu, and if you or your child is experiencing them, stay home. This will help bolster your immune system and avoid the spread of germs throughout the workplace or classroom.

Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Getting 8 to 10 hours of rest per night is ideal. If that isn’t possible for you, get as much rest as you can. When you’re body is tired, it doesn’t fight as hard to keep you well. Giving your body rest is a great way to combat illnesses.

Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet is essential for a healthy immune system. There are nutrients and vitamins your body needs in order to work at its full potential. Fill up your plate with vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.

Having a strong immune system is one of the ways to protect yourself from the flu. But to have a healthy immune system, you have to do your part. Not sure what to do to help your immune system? Here are some tips to boost your immune system.

With approximately 9,600 retail pharmacies and more than 1,100 walk-in medical clinics locations, it’s more convenient than ever to get the vaccinations you need every day, evenings and weekends, and many with no appointment necessary. For a location nearest you, use the store locator feature on www.cvs.com/getvaccinated.