Whether you’re ready or not, flu season is here. One of the most common suggestions to people who are sick with the flu is to stay home and isolate yourself from public places so that the spread of germs is minimized. However, the millennials making flu season worse seem to be breaking this trend.
A recent survey released by CityMD found that people who are between the ages of 18-34 are more likely to disregard the suggestion to stay home while sick. Millennials are still active in everyday activities such as going to work, going grocery shopping, hanging out with friends, and eating out even if they are under the weather. Instead of opting for a sick day, there is a strong likelihood that millennials are going to push through their sickness and show up to work just the same. This means that there is a higher chance of you getting sick if you are related to, work with, or are friends with a millennial.
Why is staying home so important?
One of the top reasons why you should opt for a sick day and not go in to work is because you are putting your co-workers’ immune systems at risk. Being sick is no picnic, but threatening the immune systems of other people is even worse.
While most millennials will not see lasting effects of the flu, there are individuals who do not have strong immune systems. Showing up to work or going out could put those people in harm’s way, as the flu is responsible for upwards of 12,000 deaths each year, according to the CDC.
Millennials: Do your fellow co-workers, students and family a favor by staying home and getting some much-needed rest when you are ill.
However, if staying home is not an option, be diligent in washing your hands and using hand sanitizer, covering your cough and sneeze, and avoid giving any handshakes or hugs.
Why is rest so important?
Avoiding rest can prolong the healing process for your body; instead of focusing on battling that virus, it expends more energy to just keep up with activities. Taking a break from the everyday hustle is something that most millennials disregard but is one of the best remedies. Even when your body is healthy, it needs daily rest at night, so when battling the flu, rest is even more important.
Binge your favorite Netflix show, read your favorite book, avoid those household chores for one more day; give your body the time it needs to heal.
Should you get a flu shot?
The millennials making flu season worse are also less likely to take preventative steps to avoid getting sick, including getting a flu shot.
Getting a flu vaccine is one the best ways to combat the flu virus, as it allows your body to form the anti-bodies it needs.
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Velocity Urgent Care provides walk-in, extended hours’ service for most minor medical conditions in the Hampton Roads area, including Carrolton, Gloucester, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg. Most insurance plans are accepted, and no appointment is ever needed. Reserve your spot online today!