Stay Healthy This Winter: Essential Preventative Measures

Fall is for pumpkin spice not colds and flus so take precautions today to make sure you can enjoy the fall and winter months without a pesky cough or runny nose. 

Horizon is currently offering flu vaccines at $40 per vaccination. It’s a good time to schedule an annual wellness check along with keeping up to date on appropriate vaccinations. Getting your flu shot when vaccines are available makes sure you are ready to combat winter exposure to the disease. Waiting to get the shot until someone you know gets the flu is not advised. Flu shot effectiveness lasts for six to eight months. Even if you get the shot in the fall and a loved one gets sick in January, your vaccine will still be active. 

“It’s important to take time out of our busy lives to prioritize our health,” said Misty Rudebusch, Chief Medical Officer. “This includes making sure we are up to date with vaccinations, age-appropriate screenings, and disease prevention precautions.” 

Horizon has some great tips for keeping colds and flus away from you: 

• Wash your hands often, using soap and water for 20 seconds. 

• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose. 

• Clean and disinfect frequently used objects and surfaces. 

• Cover your cough and sneeze with tissues and discard them. 

• Avoid others who are sick. 

• Drink plenty of water. 

• Stay home from work or school when you’re sick. 

• Get plenty of rest. 

“These tips are important preventative measures to help avoid colds and flus and to prevent spreading them to your loved ones,” Rudebusch said. “If you do come down with a cold or flu, visit one of our primary care providers to make sure your condition doesn’t become more severe.” 

Fall and winter are packed with games, parties and all the fun activities we enjoy. Take your best shot at staying healthy for all the festivities with healthy habits and preventative care from Horizon Health.