The Covid-19 emergency may be over, but Covid and other communicable diseases are still circulating in our communities. The good news: many of the health habits you picked up to lower your Covid risk are effective against other infections. Remember these habits to protect yourself from Covid, the common cold, influenza, and more.
Wash your hands. According to research by the CDC, communities where everyone washes their hands can reduce the spread of respiratory infections by 21%, and cut gastrointestinal illness in children by up to 57%.
Wear a face mask if you’re sneezing or coughing. Lots of people think covering your mouth with your elbow is enough, but studies suggest this can let infected droplets escape. If you’re coughing or sneezing frequently and need to leave your home, wear an N95 or medical-grade mask to catch any germs.
Stay home if you feel sick. If you have cold or flu symptoms, the best way to prevent transmission is to stay home. Even if you have a lot to do at work, your and others’ health is more important!
Stay up to date on your vaccines. Though a vaccine doesn’t make it impossible for you to get the flu or Covid, it will lessen your symptoms and reduce the risk of passing on the disease. Get a flu shot every autumn, and ask your primary care provider for a vaccine schedule to see if you’ve missed any important shots.
If you’re concerned about your risk for any sort of infection, see your healthcare provider for more advice. Stay healthy and safe out there!
To find out how you can be a patient at SAC Health or to make an appointment with a SAC Health provider, visit sachealth.org/patients
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