Prevent Illness

It’s important to prevent illness anytime, but with the current pandemic of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, many people are trying to prevent both the spread of illness and getting sick themselves.

With all of the talk on the news and on social media, it’s easy to start feeling panicked. But remember that simple practices can keep you healthy and keep your immune system going strong.

At a time like this, continuing to exercise helps tremendously. Not only does it give you a sense of control and normalcy, but it also helps to support your immune system, reduces stress, and improves your mental health. So as long as you’re feeling healthy, don’t hesitate to go out for a run, walk, or bike ride and get some fresh air.

How do you prevent getting sick? 

By following simple hygiene practices and supporting your immune system.

• Wash your hands (if you don’t have access to soap & water, use hand sanitizer)
• Don’t touch your face unless you’ve washed your hands
• Wash your hands before & after going to the bathroom 
• Exercise consistently & follow a well structured plan
• Stay hydrated
• Get enough quality sleep 
• Manage stress
• Eat a healthy diet, which includes quality ingredients and plenty of fruits & veggies (in other words, don’t make a habit of eating fast food and overly processed foods)

Wash your hands the right way

Pathogens (disease causing microorganisms) can enter your body through mucous membranes (which includes the mouth, nose, eyelids, and urogenital openings) as well as through broken skin. You can pick up a virus by touching a contaminated surface and then when you touch your face, that virus now has a way to enter your body. This is why I always say, wash your hands and don’t touching your face. This is good advice anytime, and particularly when you’re around someone who’s sick.

And a quick rinse with water or are you just getting soap on the tips of your fingers is not enough. The best way to prevent from getting sick or to prevent spreading germs is to thoroughly wash your hands.

• Use plenty of soap and water.
• Scrub your palms, back of your hands, and between your fingers.
• Suds up for at least 20 seconds.

With extra hand washing and use of hand sanitizer, you more than likely feel like your hands have gotten very dry. So to prevent chapped and broken skin, use lotions and moisturizers regularly.

Here’s a quick tip; singing Happy Birthday twice is the amount of time you should be washing your hands.

Want to learn more?
Read about Staying Healthy This Winter.

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