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Flu season is a concern every year because between 20,000-60,000 people can die from it. Many people are unprepared and end up getting caught off guard. This post will discuss ways to prepare for flu season.

Here are some tips to remember when trying to prevent the flu:

Check Indoor Humidity Level

Keep your indoor humidity level between 40-60% in your indoor environment.
The flu virus survives better in air that is cold and low in humidity. 
Research has shown higher humidity has an effect on virus particles in which it lowers the transmission rate of the virus. 
It’s one of the reasons that flu transmission is very low in the summer months.
If you don’t have a heating/cooling system in the house that allows you to control humidity levels, consider buying a humidifier:

Dress for Cold Weather

Limit the amount of time you spend out in dry and cold weather.
Wearing a hat and scarf (to cover your nose and mouth) especially can protect you when going outside. 
In most years wearing just a scarf would be sufficient, but during the Covid-19 pandemic, you should also wear a face mask.
When someone who has the flu virus sneezes outside or on public transportation, the particles can survive better if the air is dry. 
So wearing a mask can really give you the protection you need.

Eating to Fight the Flu

Eating to boost your immune system can be the difference between you not getting the flu or having a mild case of it, versus having a strong bout of it.
Foods too high in sugar can be an immune buster, and help to suppress the immune system so try to eating less sugar.
Stay hydrated with water or hydrating drinks like herbal teas or spa water.
Eat foods that are high in vitamin C, iron and zinc can help prevent colds and flu and build up your immune system.  Foods to consider are:

• Blueberries
• Broccoli
• Salmon
• Yogurt
• Garlic
• Sweet Potatoes

Take Elderberry for Immune Support

Elderberries are a type of blackberry that may contain antioxidants and vitamins that boost immunity. 
There have also been two studies that show it can reduce the amount of time you have the flu by four days. 
You can buy Elderberry in many forms including syrups, lozenges, tincture, etc.

Sleep for Immune Support

Can a lack of sleep make you sick?
Yes, a lack of sleep has a negative effect on your immune system making you susceptible to colds and the flu.
According to Sleepfoundation.org when you get less sleep, your body makes fewer cytokines, a protein targets infection and inflammation.
When you feel run down and want to take a nap, it could be a sign that your immune system needs a boost and sleeping can help it with that boost.

Get the Flu Vaccine

Why not.  I know there has been some controversy about its effectiveness, but combined with all of the previous tips listed in this article, you will be giving yourself the ultimate protection.  It protects you from 4 strains and has only been 30% effective this year, but it’s still worth getting.

In case you get the flu, buy:

Bottom Line

If you follow all these tips, you will have a great chance of avoiding the flu and boosting your immune system.