Tips for Preventing Illness in Cold Weather

by | Dec 26, 2024

Many of us prefer to stay indoors and warm as the temperatures drop. Spending time inside can increase our exposure to indoor air pollutants, especially during the winter months when illnesses like COVID-19 and seasonal influenza are on the rise. Maintaining good indoor air quality is important for staying healthy during the colder months.

 

Here are some tips to help you and your loved ones breathe easier this winter:

  • When cleaning and disinfecting for COVID-19, ventilation is important. Use of EPA-registered cleaning products according to their label instructions is the best way to ensure that any indoor air pollution risks are reduced while still maintaining the effectiveness of the disinfecting product. Sanitizing and ventilation alone are not enough to protect people from COVID-19 or influenza.
  • The concentration of airborne viral particles is higher indoors than outdoors, so particles can spread more easily between people indoors. Opening outside windows often and/or upgrading ventilation systems can increase the delivery of cleaner air and dilute potential contaminants including SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, influenza, and other respiratory viruses.
  • Portable air purifiers equipped with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can reduce airborne particles, including some viruses and bacteria, when used in high-traffic areas or rooms where people spend most of their time. Spaces where HEPA filters prove most helpful include workplaces, offices, classrooms, daycares, and homes.
  • Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
  • Germs spread very easily through contact with many common items including money, door knobs, keyboards, gas pumps, etc. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds. Wet your hands with clean running water, apply soap, and work up a good lather. You can hum “Happy Birthday” twice to make sure you have washed for long enough.
  • When you feel under the weather, staying home is generally the safest decision. Make sure that you get adequate rest to prevent the spread of illness to coworkers, friends, and family.
  • During the holiday season, you can further protect yourself by limiting gatherings to the same small group of people and convening for a short duration.
  • Ensuring that you and your family members are up to date with your vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to protect against serious illnesses. Consult your primary care physician/healthcare provider to help determine the best course of action for you and your family.

 

Below are some actions that employers can take to help maintain a healthy workplace during the winter months:

  • Conduct regular HVAC maintenance to ensure filters are clean and systems are running properly
  • Offer on-site vaccine clinics to employees
  • Make PPE/face coverings available to employees

Consider a workplace safety audit to identify gaps in health and safety policies and procedures. This will help to mitigate risks and hazards.

Walden’s EHS team can work with you to ensure that your home or business is equipped to maximize indoor air quality. Contact us at 516-789-2972 to speak with an experienced consultant today.

 

Photo credits:

Air purifier photo by ThisIsEngineering: https://www.pexels.com/photo/female-engineer-working-in-laboratory-3861936/

Hand washing photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-washing-hands-4114730/

HVAC photo by José Andrés Pacheco Cortes: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-drilling-an-aircon-casing-5463581/