We’re officially in respiratory virus season, and it’s expected to last through mid-May. But 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.
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In some health news, we’re officially in respiratory virus season and it’s expected to last through miday. But there are ways to protect against viruses like COVID 19, influenza, and RSV naturally. In today’s health minute, Mandy Gaither 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 Andy Gaither. Dr. Nosul says that if a patient smokes, one of the best ways to avoid viral infection is to stop smoking or at least cut back on it. She says it would be a great and healthy goal to keep in mind for the new year.