Staying healthy during the winter months can be challenging and require an additional level of awareness and effort. Colds, the flu, and respiratory illnesses are more common in colder months, and the pandemic is still surging in many states. With the holiday season upon us, what can you do to stay well?
The flu virus peaks between December and February
With the COVID-19 pandemic showing no signs of slowing down, getting the flu vaccine can reduce the strain on the healthcare system. In 2019-2020, a CDC study found that the flu vaccine prevented an estimated 105,000 flu-related hospitalizations.
Flu vaccination reduces the risk of hospitalization for all population groups, protects pregnant women and reduces the risk for people with chronic health conditions. All Good Clinic locations offer the flu vaccine at no cost to you. *
December is safe toys and gifts month
Sadly, thousands of children are injured every year due to playing with toys that aren’t age-appropriate. Here are some examples of toys that have proven to be risky for children.
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Balloons – Children can choke or suffocate on deflated or broken balloons. Discard broken balloons immediately. Keep deflated balloons away from children younger than eight years old.
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Toys with small parts, like Lego bricks – Toys with small parts can cause choking for young children.
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Riding toys – Scooters, skateboards and ice skates go fast. Helmets and safety gear should always be worn.
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Magnets – High-powered magnet sets are dangerous and should be kept away from children. Playsets with small magnets should be kept away from small children.
Wash hands, avoid close contact with others, and get plenty of sleep
Beyond the flu vaccine, handwashing is your second line of defense against the flu. If your hands are unwashed, the likelihood increases that you’re interacting with germs that could get you and your loved ones sick. December 1-7 is handwashing awareness week in the U.S., and you can click here to read The Good Clinic’s best practices to keep your hands germ-free.
Avoid close contact with people who have flu-like symptoms. Flu and COVID-19 symptoms can be very similar. The only way to know if you have COVID-19 is with a test. If you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 or are feeling unwell, book an appointment with The Good Clinic for a COVD-19 test. If you haven’t received a COVID-19 vaccination or booster yet, be sure to get one now.
Sleep is also a critical component of a strong immune system. If you’re not able to reach a deep sleep at night, your immune system may become weakened this winter. According to the Mayo Clinic, 13 to 18-year-olds should be getting eight to 10 hours of sleep a night. Adults should be getting at least seven hours a night. During a Good Clinic preventive care visit, the nurse practitioner will assess your sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress levels to co-create a wellness plan that helps you stay healthier this winter—and beyond.
Primary care near you
At The Good Clinic, our philosophy is that you’re in charge of your health—we are here to support you. We believe good health happens when patients have a close relationship with their primary care team. Whether you need a routine exam, have an urgent health concern, or are experiencing anything in between, let’s map out the next steps together. Book an appointment at The Good Clinic today.
*We will bill your insurance.