The holiday season is among us, and while cheer and merriment are lighting up our gatherings with friends and family, health and safety are an important consideration. Give yourself and the loved ones around you the gift of health this season with these
helpful reminders and tips from the CDC.
Wash your hands often.
According to the CDC,
keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps in keeping you and your loved ones germ and sickness free. Wash hands with soap and clean running water, and rub them together for at least 20 seconds.
Cover your cough
To avoid contaminating the air around you,
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow or upper sleeve -- never your hands.
Keep Warm
Cold temperatures and winter storms can be hazardous, especially to infants, children and the elderly.
Take the necessary steps to winterize your home, check your heating systems, and prep your car with extra blankets and water. And of course, wear appropriate outdoor clothing complete with layers of light clothing, mittens and hats.
Get Proper Sleep
Good sleep habits around the holidays can be difficult with so much going on, but getting a good night’s rest can combat stress and help you fight off illness. Make sure your
sleep health is intact with some before-bedtime rituals.
Travel Safely
Always ensure you are getting to your destinations safely. Don’t let yourself or someone else
drink and drive, and always wear a seat belt every time you are in a motor vehicle.
Quit Smoking
Keep your lungs healthy by avoiding smoking or
breathing in other people’s smoke.
Get check-ups and vaccinations.
Schedule a visit with your health care provider for needed exams, screenings and vaccinations. Illness can spread quickly this time of year, so also ensure you have flu shots and immunizations for the season.
Prevent Injuries
Use step-stools instead of climbing on furniture when hanging decorations, and keep candles away from children, pets, walkways, trees and curtains. Don’t use generators, grills or other gasoline-or-charcoal-burning devices inside your home or garage.
Handle and prepare food safely
Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs away from ready-to-eat foods and eating surfaces. Refrigerate foods properly, and cook them to the proper temperatures.
Eat healthy and be active
Enjoy the holidays in a healthy way with balance and moderation. Limit fats, salt and sugary foods, and find fun ways to
stay active, like dancing to your favorite holiday music.
