How to Prevent Cold and Flu from Spreading Throughout Your Household

When seasonal sickness hits your home, how do you stop the cold and flu from spreading among family members?

Medical professionals provide important tips to prevent the spread of viruses.

Wash your hands frequently and disinfect household surfaces to reduce the risk of transmission.

If someone in your household is sick, they should separate themselves from others or wear a high-grade face mask.

It's crucial to keep a safe distance from high-risk individuals, including children under 6 months old and adults over 65 years old, as well as those with underlying health conditions.

Covering coughs and sneezes, even with small children, can help prevent the spread of viruses.

A well-ventilated home and avoiding sharing food or drinks with infected individuals are additional protective measures.

Frequent and thorough handwashing for at least 20 seconds is vital, especially before and after eating, before contact with vulnerable people, and after touching your face.

Annual flu vaccinations are recommended for everyone over 6 months old to reduce the risk of severe disease.

If someone in your home is at high risk for severe infection, they can isolate in a well-ventilated room with minimal contact.

Seek medical attention if you experience sudden fatigue, muscle aches, headache, sore throat, or upper respiratory congestion.

Differentiating between flu, RSV, and COVID-19 symptoms can help guide potential treatment approaches.

Knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial, so consult with your doctor if you have any concerns or severe symptoms.