The coronavirus may be the main concern of many people right now, but it’s still important to be wary of the other diseases you can get during this time. With the rainy season, the damp and humid weather can lead to an increase of several viruses, most especially the flu.
A contagious illness and a serious public health concern, the flu can be severe and deadly. In some cases, complications may lead to viral or bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and ear and sinus infections, especially in children. It may also cause central nervous system and heart problems and inflammation of the heart and of the sac around it. Moreover, a more severe flu infection may worsen long-term medical conditions, like congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.
The World Health Organization stated that the flu is linked to three to five million cases of severe illness and approximately 290,000 to 650,000 deaths worldwide each year. With these risks, it is a must for us to protect ourselves against this infection, especially during this season.
AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, offers some tips to stave off the flu and its complications and stay healthy.
Avoid large crowds. The flu is contagious and is usually transmitted by droplets when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes, or talks. Since the flu virus spreads quickly in crowded and confined spaces, it’s best to stay at home and follow current quarantine protocols. However, when you really have to go outside to work or get your essentials, make sure to wear a mask and observe proper social distancing.
Clean your home. It’s best to clean and disinfect your home regularly since the flu virus can live on hard surfaces. Make sure to disinfect high-contact objects in your home, such as doorknobs, light switches, tables, and countertops, among others. Also, stock up on hand soaps and sanitizers so others in your home can clean their hands whenever they come in contact with these surfaces.
Boost your immune system. Having a strong immune system is your first line of defense against the flu as it can help your body fight off infections, decrease the severity of your illness and help you recover faster. Strengthen your immune system by having a healthy, nutrient-rich diet with fruits and vegetables, staying physically active, avoiding smoking and drinking, reducing your stress levels, and getting enough sleep.
Get a flu shot. Get in touch with your doctor for getting an annual flu vaccination. This is important to get every year because flu viruses evolve quickly and they adjust the vaccine accordingly each time. Having a flu shot not only protects you but helps protect others who are vulnerable to the flu.
Since the flu can be hard on your body, and serious complications may arise, it’s best to always be prepared. For medical concerns and expenses due to unexpected health setbacks, getting health insurance coverage can also be a big help. For instance, there’s AXA MyLifeChoice, a protection and investment plan that can be personalized into a health plan that prepares you for health setbacks with critical illness coverage for 57 critical illnesses, including heart attack, stroke, and cancer. MyLifeChoice gives you the freedom to personalize your plan according to your unique needs, budget, and more.
For more information,
visit www.axa.com.ph/mylifechoice/health.
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