Tips for Protection Against Viruses and Flu for Caregivers

Last Updated on September 23, 2020 by Ellen Christian

 

This post is made possible by the American Lung Association, in collaboration with Sanofi Pasteur as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

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Protection against viruses, especially flu, for caregivers and others who work with the disabled and elderly is very important. Since my husband is disabled, he has a weakened immune system. This means that he’s more likely to get sick than someone with a stronger immune system. A simple cold or flu can make him sick much longer than it would affect me.

Protection against viruses, especially flu, for caregivers and others who work with the disabled and elderly is very important. Since my husband is disabled, he has a weakened immune system. This means that he's more likely to get sick than someone with a stronger immune system. A simple cold or flu can make him sick much longer than it would affect me.

 

Help Protect Against Viruses, Especially Flu

Protection against viruses like the flu is important for everyone. But, when you help care for others, your actions impact not only yourself but also those you care for. My parents are in their seventies, so between them and my husband, I know that it’s important not to expose them to any illnesses that can be avoided.

What can you do to help prevent the flu

There isn’t a pill you can take to help prevent influenza. However, you can get a flu vaccination. Annual vaccination is important as your body’s immune response from vaccination declines over time and the circulating flu viruses and flu shot formulation can vary from year to year. Get your flu shot in the fall because it takes about two weeks after you receive a flu shot for antibodies to develop in the body and help provide protection against the flu.

woman doctor behind a desk wearing a white coat

 

Flu symptoms

Flu symptoms can range from mild chills, fever, cough, and congestion to more severe aches, pains, headache, and sore throat. Some people only experience mild symptoms and may only feel sick for a day or two. Others may end up in bed for a week and feel unable to get out of bed for the simplest tasks.

Flu prevention tips for the workplace

Like many people, I work outside the home. That means that I am exposed to illnesses from others in the workplace. One of the best ways to help prevent the spread of illness at work is to stay at home when you’re sick. Make sure that you wash your hands regularly and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. This will help prevent the spread of disease.

Protection Against Viruses and Flu for Caregivers: 10 Tips

Of course, keeping your immune system strong is important. That’s why a healthy diet, plenty of sleep and making good lifestyle choices can help you prevent illnesses. We stock up on things like elderberry syrup, Vitamin C, chamomile tea, ginger, and honey to be sure that we’re ready for flu season.

Make sure that you speak to your health care provider to see what flu shot option is right for you. Don’t forget to talk to your loved ones to remind them to ask about the flu shot as well. To find out where vaccines are available in your area, check out the American Lung Association’s GetMyShot.org.

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