Tips to Protect Yourself from Sickness Surges

With norovirus infections on the rise and communicable diseases peaking this season, protecting yourself and your loved ones is more important than ever. At Premier Medical Group, we’re here to help you stay healthy and prepared with expert advice. Here are some essential tips to guard against infections and maintain your well-being.

1. Understand the Risks

Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea from acute gastroenteritis among people of all ages in the United States.* Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach or intestines, often due to a bacterial or viral infection, parasite, or chemical exposure.**

Norovirus—and other gastrointestinal infections commonly referred to as the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug”—can spread quickly through contaminated food, surfaces, and person-to-person contact. It’s crucial to recognize the symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, and take action to prevent the spread of illness. 

Most people who contract norovirus recover from their symptoms within 1 to 3 days but older adults, children, and people with compromised immune systems are at risk of more serious and longer-lasting infections so it’s important to be vigilant when you or your loved ones are sick. 

Respiratory infections also spike during the colder months and are often caused by viruses like the common cold, flu, RSV and COVID-19.*** Luckily, there are vaccines available to prevent several respiratory infections. While getting a vaccine doesn’t guarantee that you won’t get sick, it can greatly reduce your chances of contracting an illness and help keep the symptoms mild if you do.

2. Boost Your Defense

Simple every day habits can significantly reduce your risk of infection:

  • Wash Hands Frequently: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating or preparing food, and after being in public spaces.
  • Sanitize Effectively: Carry alcohol-based hand sanitizers for times when soap and water aren’t available. Not all sanitizers are created equal—check out this list of hand sanitizers to avoid from the FDA before buying a new product. 
  • Practice Respiratory Hygiene: Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue and dispose of tissues promptly. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after using tissues.

3. Strengthen Your Immune System

A robust immune system is your best defense against infections. Make these practices part of your routine:

  • Healthy Eating: Incorporate immune-boosting foods rich in vitamins C and D, as well as zinc into your diet. 
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain bodily functions and fight off illness. If you do get sick, especially with a gastrointestinal infection, staying hydrated is one of the most important things you should monitor since your body will be losing fluids and electrolytes at a higher rate than normal.
  • Regular Exercise: Moderate physical activity can enhance your immune response and give you more energy. Getting outside, as the weather permits, provides the added benefit of even more vitamins via sun exposure. 
  • Get a Good Night’s Sleep: If you’re feeling run down, chances are your immune system is too. Quality rest is essential for preventing illness. Make sure you get enough sleep, usually 7 hours or more per night,**** in order to keep your body running strong.

4. Minimize Exposure

Reducing your chances of coming into contact with infectious agents is key. Here are some ways that you can minimize your potential exposure:

  • Avoid Crowded Areas: Limit visits to crowded places during peak seasons when outbreaks are more common. Consider wearing a mask if you do have to venture into areas with many people, especially if you are sick.
  • Disinfect Common Surfaces: Clean high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and smartphones regularly.
  • Stay Home When Sick: Protect others from getting sick by isolating yourself if you have symptoms of illness.

5. Get Vaccinated

Vaccines are one of the most effective tools to protect against preventable illnesses like the flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Keep up with your vaccinations and consult with your Premier Medical Group physician about what’s recommended for your health.

6. Stay Informed

Stay updated with guidance from trusted sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and local health departments. Knowledge is power when it comes to navigating outbreaks.

7. The Premier Medical Difference

If you’re feeling unwell or experiencing persistent symptoms, it’s time to seek professional medical attention. At Premier Medical Group, our experienced providers are dedicated to timely, patient-centered care. Whether you need a diagnosis, treatment, or preventative advice, we’re here to support your health.

Schedule an appointment today to ensure you’re equipped to handle this season’s health challenges. Together, we can keep you and your family protected and thriving.

*https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/data-research/index.html

**https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/gastroenteritis

***https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/about/index.html

****https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/index.html

 

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