MICHAEL SMITH, MD: Every year, when
flu season hits, people ask how
they can avoid getting sick.
Well, what I can tell
you is how I avoid getting
the flu.
First, I get a flu shot
every year.
That's your best defense.
Second, I watch what I touch.
Most people catch the flu
by touching something and then
touching their face.
So after I leave the restroom
and washing my hands,
I take a paper towel to open
doors until I'm back
at my office.
Third, I clean my desk area
with sanitizing wipes.
That keeps my area and my hands
germ-free.
Fourth, I keep
a healthy immune system
by eating right and exercising.
Regular exercise will help fight
the flu, but you can't just
start exercising at the start
of flu season for that to work.
And fifth, I rely on others.
I can only do so much.
For me to stay healthy,
I need others to get the flu
shot.
And if they get sick, to stay
home.
Don't bring your germs out
into the world, and that's how
this doctor avoids the flu.
For WebMD, I'm Dr. Michael
Smith.
