Back to school time is here, and at the clinic we are gearing up for a season of colds and flu. Here are some tips to help protect yourself and your family from the respiratory infections that are so common at this time of the year.
Slow the spread of germs. The germs that cause respiratory infections are spread through direct contact. Hand washing is a tried and true method of reducing their spread. Wash for 60 seconds after being in busy places such as a school or doctor’s office, before eating, and before touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Hand sanitizer works too.
Boost your immune system. A strong immune system helps fight germs when they do appear. Good health habits such as getting sufficient sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly provide a solid foundation. On a more targeted level, Vitamin C is well known to support the immune function, and is available as a supplement or nutrient IV. Additional recommended supplements include elderberry syrup or gummies, probiotics, fish oil, and lemon balm. For adults, mushroom complex can give immunity a boost, and kids benefit from taking a multivitamin.
Many fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamin C and other beneficial nutrients. We often think of oranges, but peppers, broccoli, brussels sprouts and kiwi have similar amounts of Vitamin C per serving. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables daily.
Take care of yourself if you get sick. Staying home and resting helps your recovery, and also lessens the spread of germs. Rest and fluids are key. A temperature over 100.4 is a fever; however, if over the age of 1, short periods of temperatures up to 104 that respond to fever reducers are not necessarily cause for concern. Any fever with lethargy, severe symptoms, or not responsive to fever reducers should be evaluated right away.
Your provider is happy to recommend specific immune support supplements, as well as treatments if you are experiencing symptoms.