4 Easy Ways To Keep The Flu Away in Binghamton

Every where you turn you are hearing people talking about this flu season and the fact that there are more people with serious flu symptoms than in recent memory.  There's no need to panic.  There are some common sense things you can do.

#1 - Consider getting a flu shot.  This is the best preventive.  I know a number of people that say they will not get a flu shot because they are afraid of getting the flu.  A flu shot will almost guarantee that if you get the flu, it will be less worse than not getting a shot.  See Traci Taylor's post as to where the flu shot is available in the Greater Binghamton area.

#2-  Wash your hands.  A new survey found that 75% of adults don't wash their hands for long enough. You should scrub them for at least 20 seconds.  Most people wash for five to 15 seconds . . . or in some cases, zero seconds. 

As silly as it sounds, a good rule of thumb is to wash your hands for two renditions of the "Happy Birthday" song . . . which should take you about 20 seconds.

#3-  Use Saline spray.  Saline sprays such as 'Ayr' and 'Ocean' are available over the counter are an inexpensive way to keep your nasal passages and throat free of any impurities. Cheap, easy and non addictive.  I swear by this.

#4-  Support your immune system.  A blast of vitamin C and zinc in products like 'Airborne' really seem to work well for me, especially if I am around someone who is sick.  Green or black or white teas are another immune booster.  In addition, drink lots or water.

All good advice to take seriously as we try to stay healthy this Winter.