Obtaining a seasonal flu vaccine is a top way to protect yourself from infection. But if you decide to skip your annual vaccination, there are other ways to keep you and your children safe.
You may reject a flu vaccine because of the risk of an adverse reaction. What’s more, if you do not have health insurance, you may avoid unnecessary doctor appointments. Whatever the reason, one simple habit can greatly reduce your risk of contracting the flu virus.
Make a habit of regularly washing your hands. It is important to wash your hands before eating. But, even if you’re not about to enjoy a meal, always wash your hands upon arriving home, and periodically throughout the day. Your hands touch a variety of surfaces each day – door knobs, telephones, light switches, etc. These surfaces contain germs, and if someone with the flu virus comes in contact with these surfaces, you can become sick.
Even if you decide to get a flu vaccine, it doesn’t hurt to take these precautions. Use antibacterial soap and keep hand sanitizer in your purse, car or desk drawer.