There is plenty to love about winter; snow days, the holidays, ice skating, sledding. However, there is also plenty to prepare for. Make sure you and your family can enjoy all that winter has to offer while staying comfortable and healthy by reducing influenza transmission by keeping these tips top of mind.

How to Reduce Influenza This Winter

Everyone knows winter is prime time for viral infections. From cold to influenza, we’re more likely to get sick when temperatures outside (and humidity inside) fall. Here’s how to prevent influenza and the common cold this winter.

Keep Clean:

Parents Magazine recommends being sure to practice proper hand-washing (lathering up for at least 30 seconds) to prevent illness. Families can also protect against spreading influenza by tossing toothbrushes and washing bed linen after someone in the house has been sick.

Stay Hydrated:

While we feel less thirsty in the winter, it’s still important to drink plenty of fluids because dehydration can make you more prone to getting sick. Your home’s air can also get thirsty and influenza viruses are more infectious in dry air. A whole-home humidifier is a must-have to stay reduce influenza and other airborne viruses by keeping indoor humidity above 40 percent.

Get a Flu Shot:

For most people, the flu shot is entirely safe and effective. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that most people — especially children and the elderly — get vaccinated as the best first line of defense against seasonal influenza.

Don’t let winter woes keep you and yours from enjoying the lighter side of the colder season.

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