November to March in the Northeast is a terrible time period for several reasons. It’s cold, dark, rainy, and, worst of all, a veritable petri dish for all things communicable. As someone with a weakened immune system, I dread this time of year.
In college, I basically accepted that I would be sick and rolled with the punches. However, as a working adult, being sick and taking a day off is not always something I can afford. Now 3 years out of school, I have figured out what helps limit my interactions with germs. Below is a list of tips and tricks for reducing your chances for getting sick (unfortunately there are no guarantees in the world of immunity).
Sanitize your cell phone
I cannot stress this one enough – your phone goes EVERYWHERE with you. It is exposed to so many germs because you touch it when you’re out and about and not washing your hands. We are all guilty of being on our phones while we eat and that results in germ transfer. In a perfect world, we would do this every day, I typically use a Clorox wipe or an alcohol wipe.
Wipe down your work station
First thing in the morning, I use a Clorox wipe to clean my mouse, keyboard, desk surface, and phone. This was a tip I picked up at a previous job where there was an open office plan and people often worked at others’ desks. While I now have my own office, I have continued this practice. We spend all day at our desks and without thinking can touch our faces while working on something. Many eat lunch at their desk as well and should try to reduce the germ contact with food.
Take your vitamins and consider herbal medicine
I am a huge proponent for preventative care, so vitamins are always a part of my regiment. Another option to consider (with the guidance of a professional) is traditional Chinese medicine. There are several herbal supplements that are designed to be taken at the first signs of imbalance in your health and in my experience, have prevented the onset of illness.
The “train glove”
When I was commuting on the subway, I saw an older, sophisticated-looking woman do something that I immediately put into practice. In the middle of the summer, she reached into her bag and from a plastic baggy produced a leather glove which she put on the hand that she used to hold on to the pole. My germaphobic heart loved her efforts. I never fully adopted this methodology, but I always carried tissues and adopted a similar style of avoidance. I did occasionally get a judging glare from a fellow commuter, but I did my best to summon the aura of the fabulous woman I had observed and be resolute in my decision to avoid the germs as best as I could.
And if all else fails, STAY HOME!
If you think you are coming down with something, work from home if possible or take the day. You might be able to nip the virus in the bud by resting and giving your body a break. Additionally, I find coming in to work when you’re under the weather to be unprofessional. There is no benefit to coming in when you’re under the weather because you’re only extending the time you’re going to be sick for and you’re potentially spreading what you have to other people. Obviously, not every work place has the same sick time and rules, but do what you can to take care of your health.
