Experts say curbing the spread of seasonal flu virus starts at home

These often overlooked home hygiene practices are key to preventing sickness

With this year’s flu season being accompanied by slowly rising COVID-19 cases, experts remind us that staving off the flu virus typically begins with common practices that families can do at home. 

“It’s important to ensure that our personal spaces are free of transmissible diseases like the flu. Contrary to popular belief, the flu is caused by a virus different from the common cold so symptoms tend to last longer and are more severe,” says Dr. Gyneth Bibera, Country Medical Director of GSK Philippines. “Patients will experience the typical runny nose, coughing, headaches, fevers, and fatigue, but the severity can often lead to the inability to do daily tasks, the need for doctor consultations, or even hospitalizations,” she adds.

Flu season is coming: Are you and your loved ones prepared?

Medical expert shares ways to stay healthy and protected from the virus

Just like that, summer is over, which could only mean one thing: flu season is just around the corner.

As COVID-19 lockdown restrictions continue to loosen up, people are taking the opportunity to go out more often. Many have gone back to work. There are even schools in some areas that have returned to face-to-face classes. 

While we are currently feeling the heat of summer, the rainy season will soon take over. It has been observed that during this wet period the highest cases of flu are being recorded.  

Flu, Colds Season is here!

What can you do to help your immune system, overall wellbeing? 

The wet season is here! As much as we love the rain, so do the bacteria and viruses, which cause common colds and flu. While these microbes are present all-year-round, the wet and humid weather are perfect hosts for them to lurk even more. 

While it is given that you need to be extra careful during heavy downpours, especially when you are pregnant, it also pays to take note of the other measures that can help you maintain a strong immune system, which acts as your body’s first line of defense against cold and flu viruses. 

Generally, there is no cure to common colds and flu, that is why prevention is the best approach to ensure that you do not contract the viruses, which cause these illnesses.