Student Article
Beat Winter Illness: Science-Backed Tips to Stay Healthy
Virus (noun): A tiny germ that makes people sick.
Gargle (verb): To rinse your throat with liquid.
Hydrated (adjective): Having enough water in your body.
Winter bugs can make us feel yucky, but there are ways to fight back!
Colds:
Colds make us sneeze and cough because tiny viruses invade our bodies. They spread through sneezes, coughs, or touching things like door handles. You can help stop colds by washing your hands often and covering your nose with a scarf when it’s cold. Taking zinc within 24 hours of getting a cold might help you feel better faster.
Flu:
Flu is a stronger virus than a cold. It can cause a fever, cough, and body aches. You can avoid catching the flu by washing your hands and not touching your face. A flu jab vaccine can protect you from the most dangerous types of flu. If you do get sick, eating chicken soup can help your body fight it.
Sore throats:
When your throat hurts, try gargling with warm, salty water. Throat lozenges from the pharmacy can also make it feel better. But smoky or polluted air can make sore throats worse, so try to avoid it.
Norovirus:
This bug makes people vomit and have diarrhea. It spreads easily, so wash your hands with soap and water. Drinking small sips of water often helps you stay hydrated if you’re sick.
Winter blues:
Some people feel sad when there’s less sunlight in winter. Sitting near a bright light for a while can make you feel happier.
© Simon Crompton / Our Media
Virus (noun): A tiny germ that makes people sick.
Gargle (verb): To rinse your throat with liquid.
Hydrated (adjective): Having enough water in your body.