Preparing for Flu Season

• 1). Get a flu shot. The development of H1N1 has led many people to have a heightened awareness of the dangers that the flu can pose for certain people.
  
  To decrease your chances of getting the flu, get a flu vaccination. If you are able to obtain an H1N1 vaccine, it is recommended that you receive that as well. Not only does the flu shot decrease the likelihood that you will come down with influenza, in decreases the likelihood that you will pass it onto others, including your own family and friends.
  
  
• 2). Wash your hands often. Handwashing is the best thing you can do to stop the spread of infectious disease. According to an article on PhysOrg.com, most people do not wash their hands for long enough, and some do not wash them at all. To effectively kill germs and reduce the spread of disease, warm water and soap should be used while hands are rubbed together vigorously for no less than 25 seconds.
  
  Frequency is important, too. When it comes to flu season, you really can't wash your hands too much. If running water or soap is unavailable, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers in a pinch.
  
  
• 3). Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains have never been more important than they are during flu season. A body that is fed properly has better chances of warding off an infection such as the flu than one that isn't.
  
  
• 4). Get enough sleep. Seven to eight hours of sleep each night is optimal. Even if you have to alter your schedule slightly to achieve this goal, the effects of proper sleep could pay off in the end. Sufficient sleep also helps your immune system to function at its maximum ability.
  
  
• 5). Exercise regularly. In addition to sleep and a balanced diet, exercise also helps to keep your immune system primed. Thirty minutes of exercise daily is a good goal not just during flu season, but for every day.