Beat Winter Viruses
It’s that time of the year again. The season of long nights, warm jumpers, gift buying and festive gatherings.
It’s also the time of the year when illnesses spread quickly and easily. Common viruses like colds and flu, norovirus, RSV and COVID-19 can have a big impact on our lives and disrupt our plans.
That’s why it is so important we all do what we can to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.
Here are some simple actions you can take to stop the spread of illnesses this winter. They may seem obvious, but evidence shows that they work.
Stay up to date with your vaccines
Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our children against ill health. Find out more about vaccinations including flu and COVID-19 here.
Practise good hygiene
These simple actions can help stop the spread of illnesses:
- Wash your hands regularly with warm, soapy water for 30 seconds
- Clean your surroundings frequently.
To help stop the spread of germs:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands
Stay at home if you’re unwell
While it’s tempting to push yourself and head out even if you’re feeling unwell, you could be spreading the illness among friends and family. Staying at home helps to contain the illness.
Let fresh air in
Whenever possible, when meeting indoors, try to let fresh air in so germs don’t circulate.