Written by Erin Smith, Occupational Athletic Trainer
Cold and flu season is among us. With the current COVID-19 pandemic still very much active, it is important to build up your immune system and help prevent the spread of germs.
1. Get the flu vaccine
It is a great first line of defense against the virus. Plus, Dot makes it a priority to offer the flu vaccine to all employees. If you are unsure of how to get one, you may reach out to your location’s Family Health Center (FHC), manager, or Human Resources manager for more information.
2. Vitamin C & Zinc
As we enter the cooler months of the year, be sure to get plenty of vitamin C and zinc in your diet to help boost overall immune health. Fueling your body with healthy fats such as egg yolks, liver, cod, or other fatty fish (all of which are also high in vitamin D3) also helps give you a boost.
3. Get plenty of probiotics for your gut and immune health
Take a daily supplement or eat things such as Greek yogurt or kefir to improve your gut health.
4. Drink water
At least 8 cups each day.
5. Get 7-9 hours of sleep at night
This will assist in keeping your immune system at peak performance levels.
You can help your immune system and the health of others by following these three guidelines to avoid spreading germs:
1. Wash or Sanitize Your Hands
Be sure to wash your hands frequently using soap and warm water. Lather your hands with soap for 20 seconds before rinsing them in warm water. If you do not have access to soap and water, you may use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Be sure to completely cover your hands with sanitizer. Continue to rub them together until the sanitizer evaporates and your hands are no longer wet.
2. Cover Your Mouth
Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth anytime you cough or sneeze. At this time, the CDC also recommends wearing a face mask that covers your nose and mouth anytime you are within 6 feet of others to help prevent the spread of germs.
3. Stay Home
If you begin to feel under the weather, you should stay home and call your doctor or utilize MDLIVE. It is very important to keep your distance from others if you have experienced any of the following symptoms within the last 24 hours:
- Fever of 100.4 or greater
- Cough and/or sore throat
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Severe body aches, chills, and fatigue
For Dot Drivers
For more information regarding your health and safety, please reach out to your Occupational Health team or visit the Dot Foods COVID-19 site, which has helpful links to the CDC, WHO, and individual state’s health departments.