7 Healthcare Tips to Prepare You for Winter

7 Healthcare Tips to Prepare You for Winter

The approaching winter may cause many people to fall ill from fever, or experience dry, cracked skin. Here are 7 health tips to help you combat the cold weather this year.

1. Consume a balanced and nutritious diet, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly, get enough rest, and avoid overworking yourself. Maintaining good health will help you fight common winter illnesses such as colds, flu, and the new 2009 flu strain.
2. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drug use, as these can weaken your body's health and increase the likelihood of infection.
3. Stay in well-ventilated areas and avoid crowded, congested public spaces, especially during flu outbreaks.
4. Wash your hands frequently, as you may come into contact with germs on various surfaces, such as door handles, stair railings, elevator buttons, and public telephones.
5. Avoid close contact with sick individuals and refrain from sharing personal items like towels, drinking glasses, plates, and utensils.
6. If you are sick and experiencing coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a cloth or wear a face mask.
7. People with allergies and asthma may experience worsened symptoms during this season. In addition to the cold weather itself, increased dust or having pets indoors can trigger allergies. Longer periods spent in bed during the dark, cold winter months can also increase exposure to dust mites found in bedding, pillows, and blankets. Be mindful of these triggers and take steps to maintain a strong immune system.