The winter months are notorious for bringing sickness. Flu season begins in October and ramps up into January. Colds are also more common during the winter months. Read on for tips on keeping yourself and your family healthy this winter.
Why Are Sicknesses More Common in Winter?
Viruses transmit more effectively in cold and dry weather, increasing your chances of coming into contact with sickness. Additionally, as cold weather drives people indoors, you’re more likely to be in close contact with someone who isn’t feeling well.
How Can I Stay Healthy in Winter?
You’re less likely to fall ill when your body is well-taken care of. Some of the best things you can do to keep yourself healthy in winter are to adopt good self-care practices, such as:
- Exercising regularly
- Getting a full night’s rest
- Eating nutrient-rich foods
Additional tips to avoid catching an illness from others include:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Get a flu vaccine.
- Wash your hands often.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Clean frequently touched objects and surfaces.
How Can I Stop From Infecting Others?
No matter how careful you are, sickness happens. When you aren’t feeling well, consider these tips to prevent yourself from passing on your illness:
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Don’t go to school or work if you aren’t feeling well.
- If you have a fever, stay home for 24 hours unless seeking medical care.
Preventing Seasonal Affective Disorder
Darker weather can bring symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD. SAD is a recurring seasonal depression caused by the lack of sunlight in winter. It’s extremely common, affecting millions of Americans every year. Individuals in northern parts of the country, where there is less daylight, are generally more affected by SAD.
The winter months may inevitably bring illness. Keep these tips in mind to help prevent getting or spreading sickness. For further guidance, contact your doctor today.
Treating SAD
If your SAD is severe, your doctor may prescribe you medication, but minor symptoms of SAD can often be treated at home. Here are some of the practices commonly used to treat mild cases of SAD:
- Increase the sunlight in your home.
- Buy a light box.
- Take a trip somewhere sunny.
- Get outside and exercise regularly.
The winter months may inevitably bring illness. Keep these tips in mind to help prevent getting or spreading sickness. For further guidance, contact your doctor today.
For more wellness tips, contact INSURICA today.
This is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
About the Author
Share This Story
Related Blogs
Is One Massive Claim to Blame? What is the Real Result of My Sky-High EMOD?
Many have been there staring at a workers’ compensation insurance proposal, overwhelmed by a premium so steep it feels like a punishment. The explanation seems simple: one big, catastrophic claim has thrown your experience modification factor (EMOD) into chaos, leaving you with an astronomical bill.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Educational Institutions
Workers’ compensation is a vital component of employee benefits for educational institutions. It provides coverage for workplace injuries or illnesses, ensuring that employees receive the medical care and support they need while protecting schools from costly lawsuits. For administrators, understanding how workers’ compensation works and tailoring it to the unique environment of schools is essential for maintaining a safe and supportive workplace.
Winter Weather Oil and Gas Safety Tips
To prevent injuries and illness as a result of winter weather, it’s important to learn about the causes, symptoms, and safety considerations to take so you are prepared to handle winter’s worst. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there is no exact temperature at which the environment becomes hazardous. Instead, factors such as low temperatures, wind speed, and wetness contribute to cold-induced injuries and illness.