The outbreak of the coronavirus has thrust the topic of sickness and illness into the headlines, right alongside the usual flurry of news stories about the cold and flu that pop up this time of year.
But that fact that I was at Home Depot recently and I saw a woman asking about disposable masks to protect herself from germs helped me realize that this is something on the minds of many.
I'm guessing that includes many of our RV Lifestyle Fellow Travelers.
That's why I thought it would be a good time to review ways to avoid getting sick, especially as you don't want anything slowing you down from making your RV travels plans or getting out on the road!
I went to some expert sources like SeniorsLifestyleMag.com and Healthline.com to find the following tips:
Get a Flu Shot
The Centers for Disease Control reports at least 15 million cases of the flu in the U.S. so far this year, 140,000 hospitalizations, and 8,200 deaths, including 54 children. Though we're months into the flu season, many sources say that it's not too late to get a flu shot.
Clean the Carpets
The stomach flu virus, can live in carpeting for weeks at a time. Steam-clean carpets regularly to kill those germs before they have the chance to make you sick.
Keep your Distance
If you see or hear anyone coughing or sneezing, simply stay away. It may seem obvious, but remember: Human-to-human contact is one of the easiest ways to spread illness. People who are already sick are patient zero, and they can infect you easily. Keep them at least three feet away from you if at all possible.
Clean Community Properties
Communal spaces that multiple people touch daily are hot spots for viruses and germs. Clean those areas daily during cold and flu season. Simply wiping down doorknobs, sinks, and toilets with an antibacterial wipe will lessen the chance that you’ll get sick.
Avoid Smooching
From the second someone shows the first signs of infection, they can pass the illness on. Kissing and exchanging bodily fluids during this time will increase your risk of getting sick, too. Take some time off and let them get better before resuming the fun stuff.
Get Plenty of Sleep
If you start to feel the symptoms of a cold or the flu coming on, it's time to rest. Your body needs all the energy and time you can give to fight whatever is making you sick. Get plenty of sleep and rest so that your body can mount an adequate defense against the invader.
Drink green tea
For centuries, green tea has been associated with good health. Green tea’s health benefits may be due to its high level of antioxidants, which are called flavonoids.
According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, several fresh-brewed cups a day can lead to potential health benefits. These include lower blood pressure and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Get Vitamin D
Reports indicate that many Americans fall short of their daily vitamin D requirements. Deficiencies in vitamin D may lead to symptoms such as poor bone growth, cardiovascular problems, and a weak immune system.
Foods that are good sources of vitamin D include egg yolks, mushrooms, salmon, canned tuna, and beef liver. You can also buy vitamin D supplements at your local grocery store or pharmacy. Choose supplements that contain D3 (cholecalciferol), since it’s better at raising your blood levels of vitamin D.
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