Viruses are germs that can be transmitted in different ways. They can be transferred through close contact with an infected person or from droplets in the air when someone who is sick. Viruses can also be spread by touching doorknobs, switches, surfaces, mobile gadgets, and elevators, among others.
Infections such as colds, flu, smallpox, and coronavirus among humans can be caused by viruses. They can break into normal cells and utilize them to quickly replicate themselves. They are contagious and may even cause chronic or life-threatening illnesses. Fortunately, there are simple precautions on how to prevent viral infections. Here are 7 practical tips that you can follow so you can stay infection-free and avoid getting sick.
7 Easy Tips On How to Prevent Viral Infections
1. Boost Your Immunity.
You can strengthen your immune system by having a healthy diet, taking your vitamins, and getting enough sleep.
- Eat nutritious foods like green leafy vegetables and fruits that are rich in nutrients and antioxidants.
- Take vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc to fight off viruses.
- Get sufficient sleep each night to keep your immune system strong.
Your immune system produces and releases proteins called cytokines during sleep. Cytokines help the body by targeting inflammations and infections. Lack of quality sleep can result in a deficiency of these essential proteins.
2. Wash Your Hands Regularly.
Frequent handwashing is one of the best steps on how to prevent viral infections and keep yourself from getting sick. Always thoroughly wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. If they are not available, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Do not forget to wash your hands on several occasions.
- before preparing or eating food
- after using the bathroom
- blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- playing with your pet
- taking out the garbage
- visiting an ill person
- changing a diaper
You can also use BestLab Jeju Aloe Fresh Hand and Face Wipes after handwashing for added protection. Its aloe vera and cucumber extract keep your skin from itchiness and redness. Stay clean while keeping your skin moisturized, protected, and nourished.
3. Always Cover Your Mouth and Nose When Coughing Or Sneezing.
Coughing and sneezing can transmit disease-causing viruses through microscopic droplets in the air. One simple step on how to prevent viral infections from spreading is to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and then discard it properly. Wash your hands thoroughly after that. If there is no tissue, cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow instead of using your bare hands.
4. Clean And Disinfect.
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces is another step to keep in mind to avoid viral infections. High touch surfaces include doorknobs, switches, desks, mobile phones, countertops, toilets, faucets, and sinks. Remember to wash your hands properly after coming into contact with them.
5. Get Vaccinated.
Vaccinations are important if you want to avoid getting sick. Although it may cause some side effects like low fever or sore arm, receiving vaccinations is a good measure of how to prevent viral infections. Consult your doctor about your vaccination status.
- Recommended vaccines for babies and children include Hepatitis B, inactivated poliovirus, influenza, measles, mumps, and rubella.
- Adults can get vaccines for COVID-19, influenza, Hepatitis B, and shingles, among others.
- Your pet’s vaccinations like anti-rabies must be updated annually and on schedule. This is also another way to prevent viral infections and protect them and your family.
6. Practice Good Food-Safety Methods.
Safely preparing and storing your foods is one way to prevent viral infections caused by food-borne pathogens at home. These techniques can help kill microbes in the food.
- Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling raw meat.
- Rinse meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, and fruits very well under running water before cooking or serving them.
- Wash utensils and cutting boards that were used to prepare raw meat before using them on cooked meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if ground meats are cooked to 160° F, whole poultry to 180° F, and roasts and steaks to 145° F.
- Defrost your foods in the refrigerator or microwave.
7. Practice Animal-Control Measures.
Get rid of areas where rodents and other animals could easily hide and build nests around and inside your home. This can help prevent viral infections from being transmitted within your family. Rodents carry pathogens like leptospirosis and plague.
Observe the following measures to avoid acquiring diseases spread by animals:
- Keep your food and garbage in covered containers.
- Seal the cracks and holes in your home to prevent access to rodents.
- Hire a pest control expert to eliminate rodents if the problem is severe.
ALSO READ: Hygiene and Sanitation Related Diseases You Need to be Aware Of
Viruses can spread in various ways such as close contact with an infected person, droplets in the air caused by coughs or sneezes of a sick individual, or touching contaminated objects like doorknobs, switches, and mobile gadgets. Viral infections are contagious and may cause life-threatening illnesses. It is important to protect yourself and your family from getting sick. There are several safety tips on how to prevent viral infections from spreading. Following these precautions can enhance your protection and keep you and other people infection-free and healthy.
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