Tips for Preventing Illness This Winter

Proactive Steps to Stay Healthy This Season

We are well into the winter sick season, but getting sick isn’t inevitable. With the right precautions and lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk of winter illnesses. Here are some effective tips for staying healthy during the colder months.

#1 Wash Those Hands!

Hand washing is very important and can help decrease the amount of germs our bodies have to work to fight off. Germs can be spread from person to person or from surfaces to people. Regular and thorough hand washing is a simple yet effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds.

#2 Avoid Your Face

Viruses can enter your body when you touch your eyes, bite your nails, or scratch your nose. To prevent this, refrain from touching your mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands. Whenever you have been out, avoid touching your face until you have washed (or sanitized) your hands.

#3 Avoid Close Contact

One of the best things you can do to stay healthy during cold and flu season is to limit close contact with others who are sick or exhibiting symptoms.

#4 Sleep, Sleep, Sleep

Sleep is healing and regenerative to our bodies.  A well rested body is able to resist infection better.  At the first sign of illness, we recommend you make a plan to get everyone in bed a little earlier for extra sleep.

#5 Drink Extra Water

Drinking plenty of water flushes our bodies of toxins and keeps us hydrated.  When we are dehydrated, our noses and throats get dry. This allows for viruses to stick more easily.  Always encourage your children to drink their water.

#6 Clean Common Surfaces

Everyone in your family picks up germs throughout the day, and, inevitably, some of those germs will find their way into your house. During cold and flu season, you’ll want to clean countertops, faucets, door handles, toys and other shared surfaces more frequently. In addition, clothing and soft toys should also be washed after coming into contact with a sick person.

#7 Eat A Nutritious Diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports your immune system. Nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and selenium are particularly important for immune health.

#8 Get A Flu Shot

One of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal illnesses like the flu is to get vaccinated. Annual flu shots are recommended for everyone, especially those with chronic health conditions, the elderly, and children.

As we navigate through the winter months, remember that your health is a priority. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from common winter illnesses. If you have specific health concerns or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Saving Grace. We’re here to support you in achieving optimal health this winter and beyond. 

Saving Grace offers telemedicine and in-home visits to families in select cities in Oklahoma and Kansas.

Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Understanding RSV: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention Strategies

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a highly contagious respiratory virus commonly found in the community. While RSV generally leads to mild, cold-like symptoms, it can pose a significant risk to young children (especially those under 1 year old) and older adults. The illness typically lasts for about 10 days, with day 5 often being the most severe.

Symptoms to Watch For:

RSV symptoms typically appear in stages and are generally mild but can escalate in severity, particularly in high-risk groups. They include:

• Runny nose
• Sore Throat
• Decrease in appetite
• Coughing
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Wheezing

Treatment and Management:

There’s no specific treatment for RSV. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and may include:

• Over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
• Adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration
• Keeping the air moist with a humidifier
• Nasal saline drops and suctioning to relieve nasal congestion

In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide oxygen therapy, intravenous (IV) fluids, and other supportive care.

Prevention is Key: Tips for Avoiding RSV

#1 Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands is one of the simplest and most effective methods to safeguard yourself and your children from illness. Germs can spread from person to person or from surfaces to individuals. Using soap and water to wash your hands is the most effective way to eliminate germs. If you have a newborn, request that visitors wash their hands before holding the baby.

#2 Avoid Your Face

Use caution when touching your mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands, as this can easily spread germs. Avoid allowing others to kiss your baby on the face, especially during the sick season.

#3 Cover Your Cough

Coughing can spread germs through the air, so it’s important to cover your mouth and nose with a sleeve or tissue when coughing or sneezing. Remember to dispose of the tissue immediately after use and try to avoid close contact with anyone exhibiting cold-like symptoms.

#4 Stay Home When Sick

If possible, stay home when you are sick.  This protects others from catching an illness.   

When to Seek Immediate Attention:

If you or your child are experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a high fever, or a noticeable decrease in activity level, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Saving Grace is here to help! Your health and well-being are our top priorities. If you suspect that you or a loved one might be showing symptoms of RSV, schedule an appointment with Saving Grace today for personalized care and peace of mind. Together, we can ensure the health and safety of you and your loved ones. We offer both in-home and virtual visits for the whole family.