In the state of Texas, flu season is officially here. That means many people will be making trips to a Houston emergency room or to walk-in clinics. While many believe that getting the flu is inevitable, there are plenty of things you can do to prepare yourself and minimize your risk of getting sick. Here are the best ways to prevent the flu.
Get a Flu Shot
Perhaps the best way to protect yourself from catching the flu is to get a flu shot. Even if it’s late in the season, it can still protect you and prevent you from getting sick. Of course, after you get the shot, you may experience minor flu-like symptoms for three days, so rest a bit during this time.
Buy Extra Supplies
To be absolutely sure that you don’t have to make a trip to a Houston emergency room if you or someone else in your household ends up coming down with the flu, you should stock up on supplies. Things you should buy include hand soap, tissues, paper towels and drinks that contain electrolytes. These items can help you to avoid an emergency trip to your local drugstore or supermarket and can even help you to avoid the need to go to the emergency room.
Wash Your Hands More Often
If you don’t want to get a flu shot but are worried about possibly contracting the flu, wash your hands more often. It helps to eliminate germs like viruses and bacteria, which is especially important during flu season. Even if you’re washing your hands often, you should also avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, mouth and near your nostrils. It can lead to the spread of germs.
Stay Home if You Get Sick
If you do end up getting sick, the best thing you can do is stay home. The flu is highly contagious, which means you can easily spread it if you go to work or school. Some people are at a greater risk of complications if they get the flu. Stay home, rest in bed and take plenty of liquids and soup.
Visit Sacred Heart Emergency Room
If you suddenly awaken and feel very sick in the middle of the night, make a trip to Sacred Heart Emergency Room. You can be seen by a doctor in a much shorter time, 15 minutes or less, so this is your best bet if you aren’t well.
Overall, it’s important to be prepared during flu season. It can help you to avoid getting sick or can make your life easier if you do end up coming down with the flu.