Right now we are in the peak of the 2018 flu season. And this year, the flu vaccine is not really that effective in fighting the strains of flu that are prevalent this year. The peak time of flu season is from December through February.

A lot of people think that just because they got their flu shot, they will be protected and they don’t have to do anything else to stay healthy. But that thought could have dire consequences. Just getting a flu vaccination will not protect you from getting the flu. But, there are a few different things you can do to diminish your chance of getting sick this flu season.

SPP238 Fighting The Flu and Staying Healthy

Dale and I went over many of these topics in part 1 of this 2 part podcast in this weeks show. Next week we will cover some more ways to keep yourself healthy. In a SHTF scenario, the last thing you want to have to deal with is sickness, because your plate will probably already be full.

WASH YOUR HANDS

Yes, washing your hands, frequently, is one of the best things you can do to protect yourself. Even though the flu virus is airborne, the virus does end up on peoples hands. This means door knobs, light switches, elevator buttons, shopping carts, and basically everything else that people can touch could potential have flu virus on them.

When you wash your hands, be sure to do it correctly. You need to apply soap, and rub your hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds. I prefer at least 30 seconds, but whatever works for you as long scrub for at least 20 seconds. A good way to time yourself is to sing Happy Birthday, or Twinkle Twinkle Little Star while you are washing your hands. Maybe sing it in your head as opposed to out loud, unless you aren’t afraid of getting a few odd looks.

Avoid Close Contact With Crowds

If you find yourself in crowded public places, you may increase your risk of getting the flu. Close quarters means it is easier for the flu to travel. So if you can, avoid crowds. Or in Dale’s case, avoid people all together!

Unfortunately one of the worst places to be during flu season is the emergency department of a hospital, or urgent care centers. So unless you really need medical attention, I would steer clear of these places. Now if you are having a life threatening emergency then of course, go to the hospital. But if you don’t have a fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, profuse bleeding, etc. Instead of going to the ER, make an appointment with your primary care physician.

Keep Yourself Healthy

This is another big thing you can do to help prevent yourself from getting the flu. Stay healthy! Make sure you get enough sleep, and eat a well balanced and healthy diet. Also be sure to drink plenty of fluids, and if you are healthy enough, get a moderate amount of exercise every day. Moderate exercise means getting your heart rate up. So something like a brisk walk for 15 or 20 minutes.

Research shows moderate exercise can help boost your immune system. By increasing your heart rate, you are increasing the circulation of blood throughout your body. Your blood contains white blood cells, and white blood cells are what fight off intruders into your body. So with exercises, your blood is zipping through your body allowing those little white blood cells to find trespassers and destroy them.

How To Prevent Flu Through Your Diet

Increase the amount of protein you consume at every meal. Diets that are low in protein can effect your immune system. So be sure to include protein rich foods in your diet every day. Some examples of protein rich food are:

* Beef jerky 30 to 40 g

* Turkey breast 26g per 3 oz.

* Pork loin or beef 28 g per 3 oz.

* Halibut 22 g per 3 oz.

* Protein powders 15 to 20 g per serving

* Tuna 25 g per serving