flu season
- Stock Up
When you’re taking care of a sick person (including yourself) you probably don’t want to be running around buying supplies. Instead, purchase an ample amount now. You’ll want to make sure you are covered in three main supply categories: cleaning agents, medicine and distractions.
Cleaning agents include all items needed to keep your home (and the sick person) as germ-free as possible. Make sure you have plenty of tissues, hand sanitizer and paper towels on hand.
As for medicine, you’ll want to have extra pain relievers and fever reducers ready in case the sickness takes a turn for the worse. Other medications that help people sleep while sick are also recommended. Test your thermometer and make sure the batteries still work.
As for distractions, it’s always smart to have a few things on hand to keep kids (or yourself) busy during periods of sickness. Puzzles and coloring books work great for children. A good book, or a TV show to binge, might be a wise choice for adults.
- Wash Your Hands
Whether you are sick, are tending the sick or just don’t want to get sick, make sure you regularly wash your hands. On top of this, buy a bottle of sanitizer and put it in every room of your house. Then, instruct everyone in your house to take a squirt of sanitizer whenever they enter or leave a room. Remember, the only thing worse than getting sick is getting everyone else sick, so be extra careful that you don’t spread germs.
Keeping your hands clean is likely the single most effective strategy to avoid catching the flu this season. In other words, don’t take this step lightly.
- If you feel something coming, get some rest.
One of the worst things you can do when you start feeling sick is to “tough it out.” Not only will you make any potential sickness last longer, but you’ll often end up spreading more germs and cause others to get sick as well. Instead, get some rest. The more you rest, the faster you’ll feel better and get back to regular life.
So plan for some sick days, call in some favors when you need to and get some outside help. Do whatever it takes to make sure you can rest and recover without having to worry about life’s everyday details should you catch a cold.
- Get a Flu Shot
Obviously the best way to avoid the flu is to build an immunity to it. This is done through a flu shot and will protect you against the most common flu strains every year.
- Get Covered
The only problem with getting a flu shot is that it can be expensive. Unless, of course, you have insurance. Our final tip to staying healthy during the flu season is to get covered. Not only will you feel a greater peace of mind, but you’ll gain access more affordable preventative care that will allow you stay healthy, longer.
One way to stay healthy during even outside of flu season is to schedule regular doctor visits, which means health insurance is a must. If you currently don’t have health insurance, Nevada Health Link is here to help. As part of a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). In other words, certain life events or situations, such as job loss, income change, marriage/divorce or birth/adoption of a child, may allow you to enroll in an insurance plan through Nevada Health Link outside of the annual open enrollment period.
All of our health plans exist to reduce the costs of health insurance and make sure you are covered. We’re always to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
