Fa-la-la-achoo! Don’t Let Sickness Ruin Your Holiday Spirit

The season is upon us…and we aren’t just talking about the Christmas holiday. Cold and flu season is in full swing, and chances are, especially if your kids are in school, you’re already feeling the effects. This time of year tends to lead to more cold and flu viruses being spread around. It’s speculated that they are more common at this type of year because everyone tends to be cooped up together for the winter season, but there is really no science behind why everyone gets sick at this time of year. Whatever the reason, it’s frustrating to feel as if you get past one cold or stomach flu, only to come down with something different.

There are some proven methods you can use to protect yourself and your family, not only during the “season”, but all year long. While there’s no way to completely rid your life of germs and sickness, you can strengthen your immunity and give yourself and your family a fighting chance agains the germs that come their way during the upcoming holiday parties, school performances, and more.

• Wash Your Hands. This is the single most effective way to protect yourself from getting sick. Most viruses are spread from person to person by way of hands. Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water, and use soap! Accompany small children to ensure that they are effectively washing their hands after trips to the bathroom, before eating, etc.
• Take Your Vitamins. True for adults and kids alike, daily multivitamins are a wonderful way to give your body what it needs. If you don’t prefer to take a multivitamin, make sure you are bulking up on vitamins and nutrients in your diet. Add as many fruits and vegetables as possible. An apple a day really could keep the doctor away!
• Chill Out. It’s been proven that stress weakens your immune system and can lead to you getting sick more often, and staying sick longer. While we know you can’t avoid stress totally during the holiday season, do your best to avoid high stress situations, and step back to remember the real reason for the season! Consider taking 10 minutes a day to just focus on yourself and relieving stress with a warm bath, a hot mug of tea, or whatever else helps you feel relaxed and helps pull you together.
• Just Say No. We are taking about saying “no” to friends who are sick. While we understand not wanting to be rude to friends and family, socializing isn’t as important as your health. If you know that someone is sick, it’s ok to alter or cancel plans with them. Likewise, if YOU or someone in your family is sick, be courteous and stay isolated as much as possible. There is no reason to spread germs to those outside of your home. Plus, you should be staying home and focusing on getting well!

We hope that all of you have a happy and healthy holiday! If you do find yourself heading to the doctor amidst the Christmas festivities, you’ll want to make sure you’re covered! Those visits can be expensive if you aren’t prepared. Protect yourself and your family by making sure your health coverage is up to date and adequate for your needs. If you have questions, Carroll Marshall Insurance is here and waiting to help. The Winter Haven community knows they can trust us with all of their coverage questions, and we’ll put together the very pest plan for their unique situation. Give us a call and make your appointment before the holidays arrive!