As you plan your family gatherings this holiday season, we want to share a couple of health reminders to keep in mind. Here are our suggestions on how to stay safe while getting together with loved ones for the holidays:
Get your covid shot.
First, make sure you are fully updated on your COVID-19 vaccinations. You can see if you are qualified for any boosters here. If you can’t get the covid vaccine for a medical reason, get tested 3 days before and after your event.
Get your flu shot.
While you are already visiting our office for your COVID vaccine, you might as well get your flu vaccine as well. Getting both of these vaccinations will prevent you from becoming ill and needing medical help during a peak season.
Wear a mask.
Wear masks if you are unvaccinated or in a public place where vulnerable people might be such as on the bus, at the hospital, or in a nursing home.
Practice Proper Hand Washing Habits
Proper hand washing habits are at the frontline of defense against germs that can get you sick. You should be washing your hands before and after eating or preparing food, after using the restroom, after touching garbage, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Follow the CDC’s tips on how to wash your hands:
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
When you are not able to wash your hands, you can use hand sanitizer as an alternative. However, keep in mind that sanitizers do not get rid of all types of germs and may not be as effective if your hands are visibly dirty. Hand sanitizer also does not rid your hands of heavy metals or harmful chemicals.
We Are Your Trusted Resource for Health Care
We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season. If you are concerned about your health or would like to schedule a visit, please contact us today.