Thursday, January 9, 2014

Is It Just Me or Is There Something Going Around?

Is it just me or is there something going around?

No, it’s not just you. You really are running into a lot of people who are sick or who have been sick lately. Chances are you have been ill, too. 

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, we typically see a bump in illnesses like norovirus and upper respiratory infections two weeks after the holidays. Think of all the parties and holiday functions you attended, trips to the mall or the grocery store, all opportunities to pick up a nasty virus.

It’s also very possible to run oneself down at the end of the year. Have you ever noticed that when you finally catch a break in your schedule, you find yourself sick? Stress can also play a role in lowering our resilience to fight off infection.

It’s good to keep in mind several tips for stopping the spread of illness.

·       Good hand-hygiene is crucial. Wash hands frequently using soap and water. Use hand-sanitizer when soap and water is not available.

·       Stay home when you are starting to feel ill. Unfortunately with many viruses, we are infectious before we start showing symptoms.  And, with something like norovirus, we are still contagious two days after our symptoms clear up. 

·       Don’t prepare food for others if you have any symptoms, particularly diarrhea and vomiting. Wait a few days after your symptoms have subsided before returning to your normal routines.

·       Take care of yourself. Avoid crowds if you can. Eat balanced and nutritious meals. Get plenty of sleep. Make exercise a priority.

Links:
1. Iowa Department of Public Health “The Gift That Keeps On Giving: Norovirus”

2. Psychology Today “When the Good Times Make Us Sick: Avoiding Post-Holiday Illness”


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