November 18, 2022

Ways to Stay Healthy During the Holidays

With fluctuating weather patterns and increased family outings, the holiday season can practically be an invitation for colds and the flu. We want to make sure our KIPPsters and their families stay healthy so we’re sharing eight tips to keep you healthy and safe during this holiday season and beyond.

Wash your hands. Cleaning your hands with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds helps to prevent the spread of germs.
Bundle up to stay warm and dry. Wear appropriate outdoor clothing including warm layers, gloves, hats, scarves, and waterproof boots to stay dry in cold and rainy weather. If traveling this holiday season, be sure to pay attention to the weather forecast in the places you’re visiting so you’re prepared for all conditions.
Eat healthy – Eating fruits and vegetables which pack nutrients can help lower the risk for certain diseases so try to make sure you’re eating well balanced meals and nutritious snacks.
Stay active. Research shows that being active can help strengthen your immune system. Sticking to a strict workout regime can be difficult for some through the busyness of the holidays. Instead of trying to get to the gym five days a week, focus on doing at least one thing every day to get you moving. This could be going on a walk with family, bike riding, dancing to your favorite songs while cooking, or trying out a new fitness class with a friend.
Stay home when you are sick. Not only does coronavirus still present a danger, other viruses are circulating across the country, including influenza and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) that are causing some pediatric hospitals to be overwhelmed. If you’re feeling slightly ill with symptoms like a cough or runny nose, consider staying home to protect others.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Trying to maintain 6 feet of distance from others is easier to do in public areas than it is when visiting with family, so ask family members to get tested for COVID-19 before coming to celebrate. Also, outdoor gatherings are much safer than indoor ones but if the weather does not permit being outdoors, indoor settings can be made safer by opening windows and doors, using fans and HEPA filters, and hosting smaller gatherings.
Keep your home clean. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces in your home helps prevent the spread of germs that can make you sick.
Get some rest! The holiday season may be busy, but it can also be the perfect time to get some much needed rest since school is out. Getting enough sleep helps keep your immune system functioning and better prepared to fight off germs.

Together, we can keep our schools and communities healthy and safe this holiday season. You can visit The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) website to learn more about COVID-19 testing and vaccines as well as additional recommendations.

We can’t wait to see our healthy KIPPsters back at school and ready to learn after break!