Baby, it’s Cold Outside

Winter has arrived in all of its blustery fury and, as the classic song goes, “Baby, it’s cold outside!” Keep the chills away with five simple tips for staying healthy until spring arrives:

1. Wash your hands regularly

According to the Centers for Disease Control, you should wet them with running water and soaping up for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying with a clean towel. If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer with an alcohol content of at least 60%.

2. Keep things bright to stave off Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD

If you’re among the 10 million Americans with a bad case of the winter blues, bundle up and seek the sun or consider purchasing a sunshine-emulating lamp. But rest easy, this generally disappears when the snow melts and spring leaves appear.

3. Whether healthy or sick, toss your toothbrush regularly

Germs, fungus and bacteria can hide in the bristles, possibly leading to reinfection after a cold, the flu, a mouth infection or a sore throat.

4. Get a flu shot

Many employers offer them free of charge, and others provide insurance that allows workers to be vaccinated free or for a nominal charge.

5. Stock your medicine cabinet with pain relievers, fever reducers and decongestants

Don’t forget tissues and a working thermometer. At the supermarket, load up on fluids, herbal tea and comfort foods.