Many people consider this spot on the calendar “the most wonderful time of the year”. After all, the impending holidays make for very festive occasions. However, the truth is that this stretch of time is notorious for being flu season. The Canadian Red Cross acknowledges the late fall and winter as the time of year when your risk of getting the flu is higher. They point out that the flu is ranked among the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada, estimating a staggering 3,500 a year.
In addition to cold and flu symptoms becoming commonplace, we’re also currently enduring an uptick in COVID-19 cases. Contrary to popular assumption, the pandemic hasn’t officially ended. Considering that the weather will only get colder, it’s vital that we all take precautions against picking up and spreading viruses associated with both flu season and the ongoing health crisis.
What cold and flu precautions should we take?
Wash your hands often. Don’t just rinse them either. Use plenty of soap and warm water. The Canadian Red Cross reminds us that germs can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours. Keeping your hands clean minimizes the risk of spreading germs.
Disinfect commonly touched areas such as doorknobs, light switches, keyboards and telephones. Cover your mouth any time you cough or sneeze. Use the inside of your sleeve or elbow instead of your hands. Keep those hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent germs from entering your body. Lastly, stay home if you’re sick – no excuses.
Is it worth it to wear a mask?
The truth about masks is that they are the easiest and most cost-effective ways to prevent airborne virus transmissions. So confirms Dr. Christopher Labos of Montreal’s McGill University. He suggests wearing a well-fitted N95 mask, especially when venturing into public spaces.
“Claims that there is no data supporting mask use are just untrue,” Dr. Labos reports, “Even prior to the pandemic, lab studies showed masks prevent the spread of infection, though the studies were in the context of influenza.”
How can we keep safe during family gatherings?
On Health.com, health and science journalist, Kaitlin Sullivan advises us to put out paper towels instead of a communal towel. This cuts back on germs spreading from one person’s hands to the next. She also urges families to regularly wipe down surfaces in heavily trafficked areas. They include kitchen countertops and tables as well as surfaces in the living room, dining room and bathrooms.
As well, crack the windows. Enable the stale and stagnant air inside your home to circulate with the fresh air from outside. This prevents virus particles from accumulating. Consider, as well, placing HEPA filters in the spaces where guests are gathering.
How dirty are our cell phones?
Abigail Abrams has published a Time magazine article entitled, “Your Cell Phone Is 10 Times Dirtier Than a Toilet Seat.” What does that tell you? In the piece, Abrams reveals that “studies have found serious pathogens on cell phones, including Streptococcus, MRSA and even E. coli.” It is recommended that we use a combination of 60% water and 40% rubbing alcohol to regularly wipe our phones down.
Should you take a first aid course?
Absolutely! The current cold and flu season results in hospital emergency rooms being busier. A lot of people come to the ER with preventable injuries and end up waiting for many hours. By taking a first aid course, you can learn to distinguish between when you require an ER visit and a trip to a walk-in clinic.
SOS First Aid offers several First Aid and CPR training courses. To learn all about them, please don’t hesitate to call us at 905-844-9813. You may also email us at [email protected].
