Cool autumn temps mean you’re donning your warmer pairs of socks, reaching for an extra blanket, and pulling your sweaters out of storage. It also means flu season is jonesing to make its miserable appearance. 

This unwelcome visitor takes advantage of temperature changes, which can act as a stressor to the body. When the temperature plummets, it can cause a weakening of the body’s immune system. This perfect storm makes you more susceptible to viral infection.

Influenza is a viral infection that preys on your nose, throat, and lungs. After a historically light flu season in 2020-2021, experts predict a big comeback in 2022-2023. 

Flu symptoms can be like COVID symptoms, so it’s wise to get testing ASAP. We’ve rounded up some excellent advice for keeping colds and flu off your doorstep. 

1. Get the Flu Shot 
   

   It’s essential to get the flu vaccine every year to be protected. The vaccine wears off after four months, and flu strains vary yearly

2. Wash Your Hands
   We know you’ve heard this one time and time again, but it bears repeating. Good hygiene is one of the best ways to help prevent a cold or flu from spreading. 
   
   
3. Cover Coughs and Sneezes
   Stop the spread by covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. And go for the elbow technique rather than your hand.
   
   
4. Toss the Tissues
   Throw disposable tissues in the wastebasket immediately after using them. 
   
   
5. Avoid Sharing
   Sharing isn’t caring during flu season. Avoid sharing cups, plates, cutlery, and towels with other folks. You don’t want to spread germs.
   
   
6. Keep Surfaces Clean
   Clean surfaces such as your well-used keyboard, cell phone, light switches, and door handles regularly to eliminate germs.
   
   
7. Stay Home
   In most cases, you can treat cold and flu symptoms at home. And, whatever you do, please stay home if you’re sick. Your co-workers and friends won’t appreciate the gift of colds and flu. 
   
   
8. Avoid Large Crowds
   COVID has taught us that large indoor gatherings are a recipe for disease transmission. Equally important, avoid people who are exhibiting cold and flu-like symptoms.
   
   
9. Sleep and Eat Well
   Prioritize rest, stay hydrated and eat healthy foods to strengthen your immune system.
   
   
10. Support Gut Health
    You see, 80 percent of your immune system resides in your gut. So, supporting your gut health is essential for staying well throughout the year. 

If you’re checking all these boxes but still haven’t jumped on the gut health train yet, we know it can be a little overwhelming. Lucky for you, we are dedicated to supporting your gut health with actionable information (like this blog) and effective, clinically proven supplements. Spend some time on our website to learn more and further your gut health journey.

1 https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-is-flu-season/