We are no doubt in “flu season.” This year in particular, the flu has been a high risk in our area for weeks. Although the risk is high, there are still many ways to prevent the flu. At FAC, we want to keep some flu prevention tips top of mind that may help us stay healthy.
Don’t Fear the Flu
The very first thing to remember is that we are not a people of fear. “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7) We don’t have to fear because we know that God is greater than any sickness, and He can heal us from any illness or disease. Additionally, God has given us knowledge and wisdom. So, we should not fear, and we should be wise during flu season by applying flu prevention.
We can all agree that no one wants the flu. However, some fail to see the need to practice flu prevention. Keep in mind Matthew 7:12 which states, “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them…” If you want others to be careful not to spread sickness, let flu prevention start with you!
FAC Takes Preventative Action
Remember, people can get the flu anywhere, not just at church. Nevertheless, FAC takes flu prevention seriously, and we take many precautions to help stop sickness from spreading. During this season, we tend to offer more fist bumps than handshakes. Nonetheless, we have multiple alcohol-based hand sanitizing stations throughout our building.
Also, we take extra precaution in our Kids Zone. By the check in station and classrooms there are notices to remind parents to look for signs and symptoms children may be experiencing before class time. If children are experiencing any symptoms of contagious sickness, they will not be able to check into their class per FAC policy. After each class, all toys and other hard surfaces are sanitized.
FAC works hard to keep sickness away. However, each person’s decision to adopt healthy practices is the most effective way to prevent sickness.
Healthy Habits & Prevention Tips
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the following habits are great ways to prevent sickness and remain healthy.
Avoid close contact
If you are sick, maintain a good distance from others to protect them from getting sick. Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
It’s important to note that you can have the virus and be contagious 24 hours before experiencing symptoms. So, if you have been in contact with a person who is sick, it is wise to maintain your distance from others even if you don’t have symptoms.
Stay home when sick
If possible, stay home when you are sick. Ideally, stay home 24 hours after your fever has disappeared without fever-reducing medicine. This will prevent the sickness from spreading which will no doubt be appreciated.
Cover your mouth and nose
If you have to sneeze or cough, make sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. If you do not have a tissue on hand, cover your mouth and nose with your arm. Do not use your hands to cover. Many common respiratory illnesses are spreading by coughing, sneezing, or unclean hands.
Frequently wash your hands
The flu virus can live on hard surfaces for 24 hours. So, make sure to wash your hands with hot water and soap especially before you eat or prepare food. Lather your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not accessible, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
Avoid touching your face
Touching your face, especially with unwashed hands, can easily expose you to germs and sickness.
We care about people’s health. By all of us using the preventative tips, we can work together to stay healthy and flu-free.
