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Keeping a healthy home can help prevent sickness this cold and flu season

Posted at 6:38 PM, Dec 17, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-17 19:56:41-05

'Tis the season for giving and getting sick.

Dr. Greg Newman with Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest said they've seen a lot of families this cold and flu season.

While most people are more worried about the flu, Newman said they've been seeing more of a different virus.

"It's 10 to 1," Newman said. "Primarily we've had a virus called adenovirus which can cause upper respiratory symptoms and stomach symptoms so whole families are getting that one."

Newman said keeping your home healthy can help keep you from getting sick.

He suggests using disinfectant wipes and sprays in your home at least once a week. You want to wipe down any surface you've touched like countertops, doorknobs and light switches. 

He said you should also change clothes or shower as soon as you get home to get rid of any germs you may have collected throughout the day.

"You'll want to wash your hair, too," Newman said. "Make sure you don't bring any bugs to bed with you."

He said washing your hands is a simple task that can make a big difference. About 20 seconds under warm water will do the trick.

Newman added that you also have to worry about allergies during this time of the year.

"We have two big allergens that are out right now," Newman said. "That's mountain cedar, which is blowing up from the hill country and of course mold which is around almost all the time."

If you suffer from allergies, you should avoid going outside when you can and change the filters in your home.

"Allergens can get bad enough to where they kind of overwhelm you and even over the counter stuff won't help," Newman said. "You may want to see your doctor to see if there's additional treatment they can give you."

For more information on Baylor Scott & White, click here

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