Holiday Health Tips


The South West Local Health Integration Network developed this handy list of tips for staying healthy this holiday season.

  • Get the flu shot - it's your best defence against the flu and will help protect others, including the most vulnerable, from the serious complications of influenza

  • Wash your hands often - washing with soap and water for at least 15 seconds helps keep the virus from spreading - or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol

  • Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and then throw it out - if you don't have a tissue, cough into your upper sleeve

  • Don't touch your face - the flu virus enters your body through your eyes, nose and mouth

  • Stay at home when you're sick - viruses spread more easily in group settings

  • Clean and disinfect surface and shared items - viruses can live for up to 48 hours on hard surfaces

  • Plan ahead - make sure you or your loved ones have what you need over the holidays no matter where you intend to spend your holidays

  • Use the ER wisely - it's a precious commodity and this is the busiest time of year

  • If your symptoms become a concern, call your family doctor, nurse practitioner or the on-call service or visit a walk-in clinic

  • Remember, your pharmacy can also provide a variety of helpful services over the holidays and can even provide emergency supplies of medicine in a pinch