From eating foods that build immunity, to hand washing and getting enough rest, we can do a lot to ensure a flu-free winter.
A great way to start is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Did you know that aerobic exercise like Zumba and Cardio Fusion can actually help to prevent the flu? And learning to relax and stress less through Yoga and Meditation can help to bolster your immune system? Learn more by visiting http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/11-tips-prevent-cold-flu. Then, take a look at what the new winter session of university-subsidized wellness programs, http://benefits.jhu.edu/wellness/healthyliving.cfm.
How do you know if you have the flu? Go to Flu Facts and remember fever, aches, chills, tiredness and sudden onset are common symptoms of the flu. With more facts and videos at your fingertips, you won't have to wonder if you have the flu or just a common cold. If you do need to make a visit to the doctor, consider an urgent care center rather than the emergency room. Under the university's medical plans, employees pay a $50 copay for urgent care visits versus a $100 copay for visits to the ER.
If you'll be traveling a lot this winter, you be glad to have a new app called FluView, put out by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), that gives an overview of flu activity across the country.
Enjoy a healthy and happy holiday season!
