Tips for Preventing the Spread of Colds, Flu and Other Viruses

With everything going on in the world lately, there’s been a huge focus on public health. Practicing proper hand hygiene and good health habits have come to the forefront of everyone’s mind. Regardless of what illness is going around, whether it’s a novel virus or the common cold or flu, it’s always important to take the proper precautions for preventing the spread of contagious diseases. 

At Arizona IV Medics, we care about your well-being and want to share some tips for controlling the spread of colds, the flu and other seasonal bugs. By staying up-to-date with the latest advice for limiting community spread, we can better our chances of staying healthy year-round.

Social Distancing and Hand Washing

Social distancing may be a new term for many, but it’s something everyone should practice, regardless of what illness is going around. One of the best tips for preventing the spread of any person-to-person illness is to keep a safe amount of space between yourself and others, whether you’re the one with symptoms or the one trying to avoid getting sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently recommends staying six feet away from others to help prevent the spread of contagious diseases.

Colds, the flu and even stomach bugs can spread via the air and physical contact. It is essential to wash your hands frequently and to avoid touching your face as much as possible. Proper handwashing should last at least twenty seconds, which is as long as it takes to sing ‘happy birthday’ twice. Remember that hand sanitizer should only be used when soap and running water are unavailable.

Coughing and Sneezing Etiquette

In the event that you come down with an illness, proper etiquette is in order. You have the power to limit the spread of colds and the flu by covering your mouth when coughing and sneezing. Be sure to turn away from others whenever you’re experiencing symptoms. You should try to avoid coughing or sneezing into your hands and instead use a tissue or the inside of your elbow. This will help prevent germs from getting onto your hands and spreading onto surfaces that you touch.

Disinfecting Surfaces

Some viruses are able to live on surfaces for a matter of hours or up to several days. Cleaning your home is a pivotal step toward containing an illness before it reaches friends and family. Wipe down regularly-used items and surfaces such as tabletops, counters, door knobs, light switches, remote controls, phones, keyboards and other appliances with household cleaners daily.

Stay Home From Work and School

If you feel under the weather, respect your colleagues and classmates by staying home. Most people suffering from a cold or the flu recover in about a week. However, this will depend on your overall health condition and the severity of symptoms.

Take care of yourself by monitoring your diet, drinking plenty of fluids and resting up.

IV Vitamin Treatments for Cold and Flu Symptoms

Arizona IV Medics is a mobile IV therapy service that administers treatments from the comfort of your home. Fighting the flu and common cold is easier when you are fully hydrated, so our services help alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, body aches, migraines and nausea. We are an organization made up of doctors, nurses and paramedics who can assist our patients in Arizona on the road to recovery.

If you live near Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson or surrounding locations, browse our custom treatments. We’re typically able to send a paramedic to your address within an hour of your initial call. Complete our online form to schedule your appointment today!