Keeping healthy during the flu season is very challenging, especially if you work with young children (they're like very adorable petri dishes!), the elderly, and/or in crowded environments like schools and universities. As a graduate student who almost lives in the lab, has never-ending work, and is perpetually stressed, this is not a good time of year, health-wise.
I get the flu shot every year. I get it to protect myself and also to protect those who cannot / have trouble protect themselves (e.g., very young infants; immunocompromised patients). But flu shots are not foolproof. After all, it is impossible to predict with 100% certainty what flu viruses might be "coming." Read more here.
I am getting quite good at taking care of myself during the flu season.
One of my lifesavers is the proverbial benefits of chicken soup. I honestly do not know who first thought of this, but everyone (doctors, nurses, family, friends) say "chicken soup" the minute you say you have the flu.
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Daphne's chicken soup |
Once my appetite does come back, it is my go-to.
I am even getting good at making it!