Flu - this is how you protect yourself

Luise Heine has been an editor at since 2012. The qualified biologist studied in Regensburg and Brisbane (Australia) and gained experience as a journalist in television, in the Ratgeber-Verlag and in a print magazine. In addition to her work at , she also writes for children, for example for the Stuttgarter Kinderzeitung, and has her own breakfast blog, “Kuchen zum Frühstück”.

More posts by Luise Heine All content is checked by medical journalists.

Germany is deep in the flu wave: Thousands are lying flat with a fever these days. But you are not completely at the mercy of the influenza viruses - here you can find out how you can protect yourself and others.

The best cure for the flu is still not to get it in the first place. That is why there are some tips from experts that can reduce the risk of infection - either because they support your own immune system or because they reduce contact with the pathogens:

Wash hands frequently

One of the most effective remedies for the flu is also one of the simplest: wash your hands often! Viruses lurk in large numbers on door handles, keyboards and handrails. A quick touch of the contaminated surface and you have some on the palms of your hands. To get rid of the pathogens quickly, wash your hands regularly. According to experts, it should take at least 20 seconds to wash your hands effectively. Disinfectants are usually not necessary for this, soap and water are sufficient.

Hands off your face!

Influenza viruses are often picked up with the hands. But from there they first have to get to the mucous membranes on the face - that is, the mouth, nose and eyes. This is the only way for the pathogens to enter the body. Therefore, try to touch your face as little as possible with your (unwashed) hands during the flu season. Not that easy at all, because you often stroke or unconsciously rub your face.

Refrain from shaking hands

For the same reason, it is advisable not to shake hands during a flu epidemic. Better to try a polite nod and smile. This is especially true if the other person is already coughing, sneezing or sniffing - or if you are already feeling sick yourself.

Avoid large crowds

Many pathogens spread through the air - especially in narrow spaces with many ailing people, the viruses have the best travel opportunities. Even in the dense crowd, there is a higher probability of getting too close to a “walking virus thrower”. So avoid large crowds.

Keep the room air moist!

Beware of heating air that is too dry - it removes moisture from the airways and makes it easier for the pathogens to nestle there. Ventilate regularly and use humidifiers; the higher humidity makes it easier for your immune system to work. You also reduce the risk of infection because they send the pathogens to the door.

Stay away from cigarettes!

Better keep your hands off the glowing sticks during the flu epidemic! The toxic ingredients also weaken the body and the defenses of the respiratory tract. Rather, use citrus fruits or ginger, as they give your body a vitamin boost that it can now use.

Do not miss out on sport!

You shouldn't miss out on exercise during the cold season either. Because physical training strengthens your immune system. The right dose is important: if you put too much strain on yourself, your immune system will be weakened for a few hours. You should also change sweaty clothes quickly, otherwise your body can cool down. And that in turn would make the path easier for the viruses.

This is how you protect others

Has the flu caught you? Then you should try now as possible to protect others from further infection. This includes staying at home, for example. Because especially when the first symptoms such as cough and fever and runny nose become noticeable, you are a walking virus thrower.

Cough into the crook of your elbow

Since the hands are such an important transport route for the viruses, it is advisable to cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow instead of your hand. If you have to use it, wash it as soon as possible.

Dispose of used tissues

Asians are disgusted when they see that we simply put used handkerchiefs in our trouser pockets. And not without good reason, because the disease-causing viruses probably occur in concentrated form in runny nose secretions. Throw handkerchiefs in the trash immediately after using them once - and don't leave them lying around.

Tags:  first aid organ systems hospital