It’s Time to Gear Up for the Cold & Flu Season:

by | Oct 4, 2022 | COVID-19 Top Ten

What To Do……………………

As the leaves begin to turn in October, it’s our reminder to get ready for the cold and flu season. Thankfully, the worst of COVID ended with the Omicron variants and blessings of natural herd immunity. Due to concerns over the COVID vaccines, many are opting out of the flu vaccine as well. Whether you decide to get the flu shot or not there are simple things that you can do to decrease your risk this season.

  1. Increase your Vitamin D3. During the summer, being outdoor raises it naturally through skin absorption but once days become shorter those levels plummet. The best way to know how much to take is to get a Vitamin D blood test and speak with your doctor. Experts vary on the correct amount Interestingly, some have called it the Low Vitamin D Season rather than the Cold/Flu season.

  1. Increase your Vitamin C intake through juice or citrus fruits.

  1. Go for a walk each day. Physical activity enhances immunity.

  1. Get a good night’s sleep. The body heals when in deep sleep. People should strive for 7 hours each night. If you don’t sleep well, ask your doctor for a Take Home Sleep Study test. It often identifies the problem.

  1. Keep busy! Volunteer at your local church or school. Teachers need the help. Children suffered from school closures. My neighbor is a kindergarten teacher who had 23 kids last year and NO aide. She spent most of her time teaching them preschool skills that they missed and regulating troublesome behavior.

While it’s certainly great being back with people; be mindful when flu outbreaks occur in your area. Consider avoiding crowds during those times and maintain good hand hygiene.

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health,
as it goes well with your soul. 3 John 1:2

Author of:  HELPING THE HURTING: NURSING MINISTRY IN THE BODY OF CHRIST (2022)

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ã All rights reserved 2022, Jennie E. Johnson, RN-BC, PhD

Author of new book: Helping the Hurting: Nursing Ministry in the Body of Christ