BEWARE THOSE LINGERING COLD & FLU GERMS

Spring is near, but cold and flu season is still here. Don’t let down your guard. Keep those bugs away with healthy habits.

• Wash your hands. Cold and flu viruses often creep inside your body by way of your hands to your face. Keep your hands clean by thorough washing, with soap and lots of water. Use hand sanitizer in between. It works.


• Use the sanitizer setting on your dishwasher. Get your glassware, dishes and utensils germ-free.


• Be aware of potentially hazardous surfaces – door knobs, phones, computer keyboards. The tops of desks at work are notorious. Use sanitizer wipes as needed.
  
• Don’t get too close to sneezy, sniffly people. Some things you don’t want to share.


• Stay dry and warm. Spring showers may bring flowers, but they can also chill you, which may make you more vulnerable to viruses. Use common sense.
  
• Keep your immune system strong. Get the right foods, especially those with Vitamin C and antioxidants, to keep your body’s protective system strong. Citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes and green vegetables are good sources of many key nutrients.


• Get a good night’s sleep. Yes, you still need about 8 hours, and children and teens need more. Don’t short yourself on nature’s great healer and soother. A sleep deficit can accumulate slowly and leave you worn out.