Let's face it, no one wants the flu. It sucks and winter is when the flu is generally running rampant. A typical flu season begins around October and ends around the beginning of April. There is no guarantee that you won't get sick or get someone else sick, but hey, we can try with these simple tips!

Stay home from work 

You are doing no one a favor by going to work sick. Stay home good people. You risk getting your coworkers sick and anyone who you may come in contact with during your commute to and from home. And let's face it, you probably won't get much done when you're at work dreaming about your bed because you feel awful. Your body needs all the rest it can get so do yourself and everyone else a favor, grab some tea and stay home!

Wash them Hands

Seems like common sense right but washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent illness. Many illnesses and diseases are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water. Common things you that are touched often (door knobs, handles, light switches) are breeders for germs. Washing your hands before and after meals, after you sneeze or cough, after using the restroom are just a few examples of when washing your hands is essential. It takes about 20 seconds to get your hands clean with soap and water. If you need help counting, just sing the "happy birthday" song TWICE and you're good to go! 

Make a "Sick Kit"

Getting sick is sometimes inevitable, sick kids, sick partner, sick roommate! Having the essentials can get you and your family through a tough time and help speed up your recovery time. Here is a list of some of the essentials:

• Thermometer

• Pain meds/Fever Reducers - (tylenol, ibuprofen, aspirin)

• Meds for kids - ear drops for pain, children's pain meds/fever reducers -(tylenol, Motrin,etc)

• Antihistamine - Benadryl

• Heat/Cold Pack

• Disinfectant Wipes

• Pedialyte and/or Gatorade

• Tissue

• Hand Sanitizer

Stay Hydrated

Over half of the percentage of your body is water and contrary to to popular belief, you need just as much water during the winter months as you do during the summer months. That's right! Even though you may not be sweating as much, your body still loses about 8 cups of water per day on it's own not including other factors for winter months like dry furnace heat. Bottom line: Don't skimp on the water and especially when you're sick. 

Get. Some. Sleep. 

Seems like common sense and way easier said than done sometimes but our bodies need to rest, relax, and reset. Running on fumes can and will run your immune system down, making it easier for the flu to invade your body. Getting about 6-8 hours a sleep per night is generally recommended so step away from your phone and social media and get some sleep! 

Look Ma, No Hands!

Whenever possible, stay away from sick family members, partners, roommates and anyone who you share living spaces with. Love them from a distance when you or your someone else is sick with the flu whenever possible. And to be clear, we are not suggesting not taking care of family members who can't take care of themselves i.e children and elderly! Clean and disinfect communal areas in the house (i.e. door knobs, toilet handles, light switches) and anything that is frequently touched throughout your home. Don't forget remote controls! Wash all sheets, blankets, towels and pillows and it probably wouldn't hurt to change the toothbrushes either.