Denton County Living Well Magazine March/April 2019 | Page 47

Keeping your surroundings clean. Wiping down doorknobs, faucet handles and counters with antibacterial wipes or spray will help keep the flu at bay. Don’t forget those television remotes. Other areas that you may not have considered are shopping carts, public pens, and self check out terminals. phones during flu season. Decrease stress. Keeping stress at bay can help your immune system stay strong. Taking deep breaths, meditation or doing activities that you enjoy can help to reduce your stress levels. Use hand sanitizer. Avoid contact. Sometimes soap and water are not convenient. Carry al- cohol-based hand sanitizer with you, that way you will al- ways be able to disinfect your hands. Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid public places like the mall, theaters, or the grocery store at busy times. Watch your hands. Stay away. Don’t put your hands around your face. Rubbing your eyes or biting your nails are great ways for the germs to get inside your body. If you have a family member in your house that is sick, don’t share linens, utensils or dishes. Use a face mask and gloves if you need to care for your loved one. Stay hydrated. Remember that you can spread the flu even if you don’t feel sick. And if you do get the flu or a cold, stay home and take care of yourself. Get seven to nine hours of sleep a night (or more!) If you need anything, don’t leave the house. Call on a friend or family member to run your errand so that you can get rest and so you don’t spread germs to other people. Lastly, enjoy some warm chicken soup! Drink lots of fluids, especially water, and avoid caffeinated drinks. Clean personal items. One of the most common things that we use need to be wiped down––our cell phones. Don’t use other people’s cell DENTON COUNTY Living Well Magazine | MARCH/APRIL 2019 45