2021 has been another year of COVID precautions…We’ve gone through multiple infection spikes, lock downs and lifted restrictions, to vaccinations and now even 3rd round vaccinations! Here are some tips and reminders for a healthy holiday season.
Tips to stay healthy and avoid getting sick
Fortunately, many of the actions to avoid getting sick from colds and the flu also help to prevent getting COVID-19, and vice versa. To avoid getting sick this season, keep these tips in mind:
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Get your flu shot. It’s not too late!
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Wash your hands frequently to keep germ transfer to a minimum.
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Get enough sleep in order to help your immune system function at its best.
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Drink enough water to make up for the drier air and other winter activities you are doing.
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Wear a mask when you’re not in your “bubble”, especially if you will be within 2 meters of others or in rooms without fresh air circulating.
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Avoid touching your face.
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As much as possible, try to keep at least 2 meters apart from others when you are running errands or at appointments. Most places already have indicators for this when waiting in lines, but try to also keep this in mind when you’re out and about.
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Get enough exercise. Even if it’s cold out, you can still get some exercise at home. Walk around, do stairs, lift books or canned goods as weights, jump rope, dance like no one is looking – there are many creative and fun ways to get moving around the house!
What to do if you get the flu?
Here’s a Diabetes Canada tip sheet to refer to if you become ill. If you need help identifying which medications to temporarily stop when dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhea, or if you stop eating as usual, please ask your pharmacist.
Holiday season reminders
Busy, busy, busy! The holidays tend to be accompanied by changes in our routines. Here are some reminders to keep you healthy:
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Take your medications as prescribed, and try not to miss your dose.
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Get your prescription refills before the holidays. Make sure you have enough medication to get you through the holidays so you don’t run out and have to rush for a refill.
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Ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter medication for your cold or flu symptoms. They can recommend sugar-free options and check to make sure a product doesn’t interact with your other medications or aggravate any medical conditions.
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If making health resolutions for the New Year, include getting a medication assessment from your pharmacist so they can screen for interactions, address your medication questions and concerns, prevent side effects, check medication efficacy and help you get the most benefit from your treatments.
LMC Pharmacy and LMC Healthcare wish you and yours a Happy, Healthy Holiday!
