We’re officially in respiratory virus season, and it’s expected to last through mid-May. There are ways to protect against viruses like Covid-19, influenza and RSV naturally. Mandy Gaither explains how you can give your immune system a big boost.
We are officially in respiratory virus season and it’s expected to last until about miday. There are ways though to protect yourself against viruses like COVID 19, the flu, and RSV naturally. Mandy Gaither explains how you can give your immune system a big boost. It’s that time of year again. Respiratory virus season typically peaks between December and February. And as we get deeper into it, it’s important that your body is prepared. I am anticipating, as I think we all are, a rough respiratory season. Dr. Sarah Nosel with the American Academy of Family Physicians says the first line of defense is vaccination. There are vaccines that protect against flu, RSV, and COVID 19. But there are also natural ways to give your immune system a boost. And that starts with getting your underlying medical conditions under control. Do you have any medical problems that we should be preparing your asthma medications for the fall and winter? Should we be making sure your diabetes is well controlled? Next, Nosal says make healthy choices. That includes consistent exercise, staying hydrated, and eating foods like fruits and vegetables. We want our body to have all of the nutrients, not to be deficient in any nutrients. Getting good quality sleep is also critical for immune system health as is managing stress. And Nosal’s final tip, make sure everyone in the family frequently washes their hands with soap and water. When you touch your nose, your mouth, your eyes, or even your face and your hands are have not just been washed. You are likely transmitting small bits of virus to yourself throughout the virus season. For Health Minute, I’m Amy Gaither. But be a good citizen. Learn how to sneeze.
