October Chills: Ghosts, Goblins, and the Real Fright – Flu
Paul Findlow

Embracing October's Spooky Traditions

October is synonymous with playful scares—ghosts, goblins, and ghouls—haunting our neighborhoods and imaginations. Yet, as we celebrate these whimsical frights, another, more persistent menace creeps in: flu season. Unlike the clichés of horror movies, the flu is a true autumn villain that can be eluded through simple, proactive steps.

Sneeze Screen: Channeling Your Inner Vampire

Let's face it, we all love a little drama in our October tales. But when it comes to fighting the flu, it's time to channel your inner vampire. When you feel a sneeze coming on, avoid letting those germs dance around at 100 mph. Instead, cover your sneezes with your elbow and prevent them from lingering for up to 10 minutes in the air.

The Power of Clean Hands

Even with the charm of fall, there's nothing magical about skipping handwashing. Shockingly, 20% of adults admit to bypassing this essential step. Proper handwashing—scrubbing with soap and water for a full 20 seconds—can prevent germs from completing their sinister mission.

Don't Be a Face Touching Ghoul

Beware of the subconscious habit of touching your face up to 162 times an hour. Eyes, nose, and mouth serve as easy access points for flu germs. By being mindful of where your hands wander, you can thwart these invisible invaders.

Vanquish Germs on High-Touch Surfaces

In absence of a clean sweep with a witch's broomstick, regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces is key. With bacteria doubling every 20 minutes, keeping your phones, doorknobs, and light switches sanitized can stop this spook in its tracks.

Self-Care Isn't Just for Mogwai

Prioritize self-care: get enough rest, enjoy nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and manage your stress. Aligning with the season, embrace fall-friendly wellness tips to immune boost your defenses against the flu monster.

Know Your Risk Level

If you’re over 50, pregnant, have young kids, or live with chronic conditions, you fall into the higher risk group for flu complications. It’s wise to consult with a doctor about precautionary measures to protect yourself.

Remember, with a few smart strategies, you can laugh off the flu and keep your autumn experience more festive than feverish. If you're seeking support with health or benefits insurance needs, feel free to reach out—our team is here to help you enjoy a healthy fall season.