While the summer was fun this year, it’s time to make room for fall activities that are sure to put a smile on both children’s and adult’s faces this October! In fact, there is so much fun to be had that there is really no time to be sick. Therefore, the team at AFC Urgent Care Knoxville wants you to know how to best protect your family’s health to keep from missing out on anything fun (and spooky!) this October. How to Keep Sickness Away This October Taking a few simple steps can help you avoid illness in many cases. Washing your hands frequently is a must. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, handwashing is one of the most effective ways to help beat the cold and flu virus this year. Did you know, though, that it’s important to wash your hands the right way? There are a few best practices to follow when it comes to washing your hands.
- First, wet your hands with clean running water, then turn off the tap and apply soap.
- Second, lather up all parts of your hands, including your palms, fingers, and even under your nails.
- Next, scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. If you aren’t sure how long that is, then sing the “Happy Birthday” song all the way through.
- Once you’ve scrubbed your hands thoroughly, rinse them off with running water, then dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them.
Second, consider getting a flu shot. An annual flu shot is the single best way to prevent the flu, which causes thousands of hospitalizations each year. Not sure whether the flu shot is right for you? The CDC offers some facts about common misconceptions. Finally, if you see a coworker or loved one sneezing and coughing, do your best to keep your distance. Even if he or she is practicing proper cough and sneeze etiquette, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Therefore, keep away for a few days until the risk of being exposed to the illness is at a minimum. What’s Going on Around Town? Now that you know what to do to stay as healthy as possible this fall, it’s time to take your healthy self outside to enjoy all the fun activities! Boo! at the Zoo What could be more fun for your kids than trick-or-treating with some of their favorite zoo animals? Change up trick-or-treating this October by taking them to this non-scary, family-friendly event! Howl-O-Ween Pooch Parade and Pet Expo Remember, even your furry friends want in on the Halloween fun! Take your four-legged family member to the Howl-O-Ween Pooch Parade and Expo. Tennessee STEAM Festival From October 12 through 22, you and the family can spend your days learning about science, technology, engineering, arts and math through a variety of activities. Plus, you will be able to interact with a number of knowledgeable scientists, engineers and designers—and just about every other expert in between. Has an injury or illness sidelined you from the fall fun? Visit AFC Urgent Care Knoxville, which is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
