Being there are sometimes shortages of annual flu shots, not everyone is always able to get one. Even if they’re in the “High Risk” category. People who are in this class are basically over the age of 65; babies 6 months old to kids who are 5 years old; women who will be pregnant from December to March; people who have Diabetes, chronic Kidney Disease, Anemia, AIDS, Asthma and low immunity systems; nursing home residents and staff; and babies from 6 months old to young adults 18 years of age who are on aspirin therapy. Even when there are plenty of flu vaccinations to go around, some people can’t take them because of allergic reactions, drug interactions, et cetera. Whatever your reason, if you’re not vaccinated, then you need to know how to protect yourself if you missed getting a flu shot this season.
The most effective way to avoid getting the flu this year is to take active measures on a daily basis. Obviously, you’ll want to stay away from people who are sick with the flu, colds and other communicable diseases. You should wash your hands with an antibacterial soap often, especially after touching shared objects such as door knobs, toilet handles, et cetera. Don’t touch your hands or fingers to your nose, eyes or mouth unless you’ve just washed them.
To protect yourself if you missed getting a flu shot this season, you should also get a sufficient amount of sleep, exercise regularly, drink plenty of liquids to keep your body hydrated and strive to eat healthy foods.
You can strengthen your immunity system even more by taking these additional steps:
1. Get Plenty of Fresh Air
One of the negative aspects of staying inside when the weather turns cold, is that you’re breathing dry, heated air. This air, in turn, can easily dry out your throat and nasal passages, making them vulnerable to germs and viruses. To remedy this, use a humidifier in your home. Also, take walks outdoors and breathe in the fresh, more humid air.
2. Add Immunity-Boosting Spices to Your Diet
You may like them because they taste good, but did you realize that spices like Cinnamon and Ginger can also protect you from getting the flu this season? It’s true! Cinnamon and Ginger have both been shown to kill germs and bacteria. Just sprinkle Cinnamon on your buttered toast or applesauce, or stir some Ginger into your hot chocolate for a taste sensation.
3. Take Hot Baths or Visit a Sauna
If you missed a flu shot this season, you can boost your immunity system by taking hot baths and visiting a sauna. The hot steam will help keep your throat and nasal passages moist. It will also help to kill any germs and viruses you may have in your throat and nose.
4. Add Plenty of Phytochemicals to Your Diet
Phytochemicals help protect your bodies from viruses and diseases. They are found in fruits, vegetables, and in whole grains. Eat five or more servings a day of foods that contain beneficial Phytochemicals, and you’ll help protect yourself from getting the flu.
5. Relax and Relieve Your Stress
It’s a known fact that stress can be a killer. It can cause strokes, heart attacks, and a host of other illnesses. Stress also lowers your immunity system. This can make your body vulnerable to communicable illnesses such as flu, colds, et cetera.
To relieve your stress, take Yoga classes, do stress-relieving exercises and take Anger-Management classes, if need be. Breathe in and out deeply when you feel stressed, and relax- even if it’s only for a few minutes a day- your mind and body to help protect yourself from getting the flu.
