The latest health concern sweeping the global health community is the potential onset of a “Twindemic.” A Twindemic occurs when two formidable viruses like influenza and COVID-19 collide. As we head into cooler weather, the threat is becoming real—catching the flu and COVID-19 at the same time can make for a life-threatening illness. Public officials from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are urging citizens to take Twindemic prevention measures and be overly cautious in coming months.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic lends a new urgency to normal flu prevention steps. The flu and COVID-19 cause respiratory infections that can be deadly. If you contract one of these illnesses, your immunity takes a hit, making you more vulnerable to a second infection. The illnesses can be more severe and take longer to recover from, while straining our healthcare capacity.
Here are a few ways to protect yourself from the double whammy of flu and COVID-19.
Consider a Flu Shot
There may not be a vaccine for COVID-19 yet, but there is one for influenza. Public health officials across the globe recommend getting flu shots, especially with the pandemic still in full force. The CDC urges everyone over six months old to get vaccinated every flu season, with rare exception. Many schools and universities have established vaccination requirements to reduce Twindemic risks on campus.
Level Up Your Disinfection Protocol
Increase the intensity and frequency of your cleaning and disinfection protocol in both your home and workplace. After deep cleaning, use a powerful sports gear disinfectant like Clear Gear Spray to kill germs that cause the flu and COVID-19 without the toxic fumes left behind by bleach and ammonia. It causes no corrosion or damage to the surfaces and equipment in your home or items we carry on-the-go, like handbags, backpacks, gym bags and sports gear.
Whether you’re cleaning and disinfecting or have someone else do it, make sure attention is paid to all communal areas and high-touch surfaces. Hotspots like light switches, handles, faucets, doorknobs, tables and sinks are just a few areas that provide a breeding ground for germs. Only use a sports gear disinfectant that is EPA-registered to kill germs that cause these infectious illnesses.
Head Outdoors
Limit indoor interaction with others outside your household at all costs. If you socialize with others, avoid indoor venues altogether. Find ways to meet up outdoors—at the park, beach, fire pits or al fresco cafes. Maintain physical and social distancing guidelines at all times.
Continue to Mask Up
Health experts from all over the world continue to urge people to always wear masks in public.
Keep Washing Your Hands
It’s still essential to properly wash your hands several times throughout the day—especially if you’re in public. Wash with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds and dry with a paper towel. Carry hand sanitizer with you for those times when there is no sink in sight.
Follow these tips to help prevent these two viruses from colliding in your household and workplace. Click here to learn more about Twindemic prevention.
