By Connie Colbert
Director, Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic
The new school year is upon us, and with the increase in the population of students, faculty and staff comes the increased risk of illness.
What can you do to lessen your risk? I’m glad you asked!
Prevention is the key:
- One of the easiest and most effective measures to prevent colds and flu is by washing your hands thoroughly and often (especially if you are shaking hands with people regularly). This reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses.
- To completely get rid of viruses from your skin, you need to scrub for 20 seconds or more. Don’t forget the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.
- Soap and water is most effective, but if you can’t get to soap and water, an alcohol-based sanitizer can do the trick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs are easily spread this way.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Keep your workspace clean. Remember to sanitize doorknobs, light switches, keyboards and phones.
- Keep a healthy lifestyle: good nutrition, do not smoke, get at least 7-8 hours of sleep, drink water and limit sugar. Sugar is a breeding ground for many illnesses.
- If you have seasonal allergies, take your medication to control them. An increase in allergy symptoms can cause inflammation within your respiratory system, making you more prone to acquiring a virus.
