Flu Season: 5 Unexpected Ways to Catch the Flu

The flu season 2011-2012 in the United States has kicked off and as usual could last until may. Besides getting the most recommended flu shot and washing your hands often we got other 5 unexpected ways in which you can avoid getting the flu.

By Medical Daily Reporter | October 13, 2011

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The flu season 2011-2012 in the United States has kicked off and as usual, it could last until May. Besides getting the most recommended flu shot and washing your hands often we have another 5 unexpected ways in which you can avoid getting the flu.

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Insufficient sleep at night

Not getting enough sleep at night can tire the body and not let it fight a cold, so people should get 8 to 10 hours of sleep when they feel cold symptoms, according to Dr. Mark Mengel chair of community and family medicine at Saint Louis University School of Medicine.

Bed Time

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Avoid dipping your chips

Double-dippers may be passing germs to those who dip chips after them, according to Mengel who recommends avoiding them.

Dip

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Biting your nails

Biting your nails can be an easy way to ingest germs that get under the nails, so experts recommend not to do it.

Nails

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Smoking

Some research studies show an increase in influenza infections among smokers compared to nonsmokers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Also, there is a higher mortality rate for smokers than nonsmokers from influenza.

Smoking

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Not being happy

According to a new research, sex, positive thinking, playing with a pet and other pleasurable activities boost the immune system, according to Carl Charnetski, MD professor of psychology at Wilkes University.

Smile