Essential tips for staying healthy this flu season
As we navigate through flu season, it’s important to take proactive steps to keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy. At Kamsons Pharmacy, we’re committed to helping you stay well so you can fully enjoy your daily activities. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
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Get Vaccinated
Our top recommendation is to get your flu vaccine. The flu jab significantly reduces your risk of contracting the virus and experiencing its potentially serious complications. Moreover, getting vaccinated helps protect those around you, especially vulnerable individuals in your community. To get your vaccine book online or just walk in, find your nearest Kamsons branch here.
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Be Aware of the Symptoms
Understanding the symptoms of flu can help you identify it early, allowing you to take the necessary precautions. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden high temperature
- Tiredness and loss of appetite
- Aching body
- Sore throat and dry cough
- Headaches
- Nausea
If you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms, it’s advisable to stay home and avoid crowds and close contact with others until recovery to help prevent spreading the virus.
Find out more about symptoms here.
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Maintain Good Hygiene
Now is the time to elevate your hygiene standards. Here are some crucial practices:
- Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use hand sanitiser: When soap isn’t available, an alcohol-based sanitiser is effective.
- Disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces like phones, doorknobs, and kitchen counters.
- Avoid touching your face: Even with clean hands, try to minimise touching your eyes, mouth, and nose to prevent introducing germs into your body.
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Support Your Immune System
Adopting healthy habits is vital to support your immune system and enhance overall well-being. Here are some tips:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body functioning optimally.
- Eat a balanced diet: Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week.
- Get plenty of sleep: Ensure you’re getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to recover.
Certain vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in supporting your immune health, including:
- Vitamins: A, C, D, E, B6, B9 (folate), B12
- Minerals: Zinc, copper, selenium, and iron
These nutrients are found in a range of foods, including colourful fruits and vegetables, meat, eggs, and dairy products. During the winter months, the NHS recommends for everyone to take a vitamin D supplement of 10 to 25 micrograms per day. For vegetarians and vegans, a B12 supplement is also advisable, as this vitamin is only found in animal products.
How Kamsons Pharmacy Can Help
At Kamsons Pharmacy, we offer a wide range of vitamins and supplements designed to boost your immunity during flu season. We also provide a convenient flu vaccination service. To ensure you’re protected, we recommend booking your flu jab online, although walk-in options are available.
By taking these proactive steps, you can help ensure a healthier flu season for yourself and those around you. Stay vigilant, stay healthy, and let’s work together to keep illness at bay!