The leaves are changing colors, the weather is getting colder and the holidays are right around the corner. There are a lot of great things to look forward to this time of year, but the one thing I always dread the most is… flu season. Here are five tips and tricks to help you increase your chances of staying happy, healthy and influenza free

1) Get a flu shot

One of the most important thing you can do to protect yourself and others from viruses is to get a flu shot. Even though these vaccines are not one hundred percent effective, they will most definitely reduce your risk of getting infected. Especially if you are asthmatic, diabetic, pregnant, 65 years old and over and 5 years old and younger.

2) Wash your hands

Colds and flu viruses can be very contagious. This means you need to wash your hands very thoroughly, especially before touching your eyes, ears, mouth and nose. Washing your hands can kill about 99.9% of germs on your hands so we need to ensure that we are washing properly and you can do that by following these simple steps:

1. Always use soap and warm water
2. Scrub your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds (make sure all surfaces of the hand are being cleaned that includes the back of your hand, both wrists, in between all 10 fingers and under your fingernails)
3. Rinse all the soap off your hand
4. Finally dry your hands with a clean towel or an air dryer

3)   Maintain a healthy lifestyle

One of the most important ways to stay healthy is if you live healthy. This means getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of water, exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, eating lots of fruits and vegetables and keeping your stress in check.

4) Steer clear

Viruses spread like wildfire so if you can avoid hanging around people who are sick it will be well worth it.

5) Don’t share

Viruses can be active for a 24 hour time period before symptoms manifest themselves. That means if someone is sick you may not know until it’s too late. Try to avoid sharing drinks, utensils, pillows and chapstick.