How to stay healthy during the holiday season

The holidays can be a season of comfort and joy, while also being a source of germs. Staying healthy during the holidays is crucial to reduce the spread of illness, maintain your overall well-being and maximize your ability to enjoy the season. In addition to knowing the differences between common viruses like the flu, COVID-19 and a cold, it’s important to know what to do to keep you and your loved ones safe or if you do fall ill.

Prevention strategies

• Get vaccinated. The flu vaccine, updated annually to combat the most prevalent strains, reduces the risk of illness by 40-60%. The severity of the flu is minimized with a flu vaccination, too. Pneumococcal, COVID-19 and whooping cough vaccines should also be considered if you’re at high risk.
• Practice good hygiene and keep a clean environment. Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds regularly, especially before eating, can significantly reduce the risk of infection. If soap and water aren’t available, alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used. Regularly sanitize frequently touched items and surfaces like doorknobs, light switches and cell phones. Ensure rooms are well-ventilated to dilute airborne particles.
• Prioritize your nutrition, water intake and vitamin consumption. A healthy diet can bolster your immune system and help fend off illnesses. Consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Hydrate adequately with water, herbal teas and clear broths. Vitamins C, D, and E, along with zinc and probiotics, can also complement a balanced diet during cold and flu season.
• Exercise regularly and get enough sleep. Regular exercise can stimulate your immune system and reduce the risk of catching a cold or flu. Low-intensity workouts like walking, yoga or tai chi are beneficial. Sleep is another crucial aspect of maintaining good health. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to viruses. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.

What to do if you get sick

If you do fall ill, home remedies like warm fluids, rest and over-the-counter medicines can help alleviate symptoms. All respiratory illnesses can be contagious. Staying isolated from others and wearing a mask can help prevent the spread of your illness. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or last longer than a week. In addition to your primary care provider, you can also seek care virtually or at an urgent care.

IU Health’s On-Demand Virtual Visits are an easy, safe way to get viral care for anyone in Indiana two years and older. You’ll be connected face-to-face with a highly-skilled IU Health provider through your smartphone, tablet or computer between 6 am – 11 pm seven days a week. On-Demand Virtual Visit providers can help you schedule a convenient flu or COVID-19 test at a nearby lab or urgent care.

IU Health Urgent Care, with multiple locations across the state, provides in-person care to treat your flu and cold symptoms, helping you feel better faster. Simply walk in or Save a Spot in line at a location near you by visiting iuhealth.org/urgentcare. IU Health Urgent Cares are open 7 days a week, including holidays.