The fall weather is approaching, meaning winter isn't too far behind. As the seasons start to turn and the quality of the air changes, many individuals – and children especially – find they are more prone to illnesses such as the cold or flu. This year, the Farmer's Almanac reported we're in for a bitterly cold winter, which also means children and parents alike may be more susceptible to these conditions.
Neither the common cold nor influenza is actually caused by cold weather, however, exposure to the viruses does increase when the air outdoors is chilly. One reason is that the viruses are airborne, and most people spend these times indoors, resulting in more people circulating the same, potentially exposed air. Secondly, the cold acts as a sort of air filter, meaning that people go from breathing crisp, clean air outdoors to stale, recycled air once they step inside. Also, most people are more likely to get within close range of a person who is already infected with the virus when everyone is cloistered together indoors.
Many treatments are available for these conditions, but doctors agree that the best way to overcome these illnesses and avoid any negative effects is to prevent the viruses from taking hold in the first place.
3 steps to prevent the cold and flu
This year, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended parents take three specific steps to protect their families from the cold and flu.
1. Get vaccinated: The first, of course, is making sure every member of your family who is 6 months or older gets the flu shot. The flu shot protects against the most common strains of the flu virus each year. The source stated that pregnant women, young children and the elderly are most likely to contract influenza, as are people with conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart or lung disease. While it's recommended that every individual be vaccinated, these groups may need it more than most.
2. Take your medicine: The CDC recommended that those who do come into contact with the virus take whatever antiviral drugs their doctor prescribes. While some individuals may scorn prescription drugs, especially if the case seems too mild, the fact is that they help reduce the spread of the virus and can save other people as well as the individual a lot of suffering.
3. Limit exposure: Make every effort to stop the everyday spread of germs at home, in the workplace and in the classroom. Teach your children to limit their close-contact interactions with others while at play, and to wash their hands with soap and water at regular intervals. People should always take care to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing, and to use tissues as needed to contain mucus. Finally, keep surfaces clean with disinfecting soap.
Use your diet to fight seasonal illness
The best way to conquer cold and flu season is to strengthen your immunity. There are a number of immunity-boosting foods you can incorporate into family meals in order to stave off these viruses and keep your family in fighting-strong condition during the cold season:
- citrus fruits
- dark, leafy vegetables
- garlic
- orange juice
- probiotics (like those in some yogurts).
Regular exercise can also help boost immunity. Make sure the whole family is getting enough exercise in order to help them ward off seasonal illnesses this year. If cold or flu does strike, however, remember the CDC's recommendation: Take the medication your doctor prescribes. FLAVORx makes a number of medical flavorings that can be mixed with cold and flu medicines to ensure it goes down a little easier. You'll feel better and stop the virus from spreading.
