As temperatures drop and we start to spend more time indoors, it's important to be mindful of the risk of pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection that affects the lungs and can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and other germs. Although anyone can get pneumonia, it is especially dangerous for young children, people over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. That’s why it’s important to know the prevention tips to help stay healthy all winter long.
Get a flu shot
Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself from getting pneumonia. It’s especially important for people who are at high risk for developing pneumonia, such as the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months of age and older get a flu shot every year.
A flu shot will not only help protect you from getting sick with the flu, but it can also help lower your chances of developing complications from the flu, such as pneumonia. Studies have shown that people who get a flu shot are less likely to get pneumonia than those who don't get a flu shot. Vaccination is especially important for people over 65 since their risk of developing complications from the flu and pneumonia increases with age.
Getting a flu shot is a simple step you can take to protect yourself from getting pneumonia this winter. Make sure you talk to your doctor about getting a flu shot and follow their recommendations.
Practice good hygiene
Good hygiene is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent pneumonia. It’s important to wash your hands often, especially after being around someone who is sick. Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
It’s also important to clean surfaces regularly. This means wiping down doorknobs, light switches, phones, and other high-touch surfaces with disinfectant. Make sure to use cleaning products that are safe to use on those surfaces.
Finally, make sure to cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing. This is especially important if you are near other people. If you don’t have a tissue available, cough or sneeze into your elbow instead of your hands.
Avoid sick people
If you come into contact with someone who is sick, it's important to take steps to protect yourself and avoid catching the same illness. One of the best ways to prevent getting sick is to stay away from people who are already ill.
When possible, avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. If you must be in close contact with a sick person, wear a face mask and practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your face or mouth.
It's also important to maintain some distance from people who are coughing or sneezing. When inside, try to stay at least 6 feet away from them if possible. If you're outside, try to stay at least 10 feet away from them.
Remember that even if you feel fine, you can still spread germs to those around you. So if you do come into contact with someone who is sick, take extra precautions and practice social distancing so that you don't get sick yourself.
Drink plenty of fluids
One of the best ways to stay away from pneumonia is to make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids. Water is the best option for hydration, as it helps your body to flush out toxins and stay hydrated. Other good options include herbal teas, juice, sports drinks, and low-sugar smoothies. Staying hydrated will keep your body functioning at its best and help prevent illnesses such as pneumonia. Make sure you’re getting at least 8 glasses of fluids per day, and more if you’re active or in hot weather.
Don't smoke
Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for developing pneumonia. The smoke from cigarettes irritates the lungs, making them more vulnerable to infection. Smoking can also damage the tiny hair-like projections (cilia) in the airways of the lungs, reducing their ability to fight off germs that cause pneumonia. If you currently smoke, it's important to quit as soon as possible to reduce your risk of developing pneumonia. Talk to your doctor or check out local support groups to get started.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to prevent pneumonia. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins will help to support your immune system and keep you healthy all winter long. Choose whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats instead of white breads and pastas. Eating plenty of Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds can also help to boost your immunity.
Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin C and zinc through your diet. Foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens, yogurt, and shellfish are all excellent sources of these essential vitamins and minerals. Staying hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water per day is also important for keeping your immune system functioning properly.
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