It’s flu and cold season once more. It’s awful to get sick as a truck driver because it is not exactly a job where you would typically call in sick. Most of the time, drivers go through light forms of cold and flu.
Drivers must be cautious and keep an eye on their health. Individuals with pre-existing conditions or who suffer from severe flu cases may experience consequences that cause further respiratory issues.
Prevention Methods
The best defence against the flu and the common cold is prevention. Taking a few easy precautions can drastically lower your chances and the frequency with which you deal with the flu or cold when traveling.
Drink Plenty of Water
Proper hydration is crucial for your health as it maintains internal organ function, enhances sleep and mood quality, and aids in nutrition absorption at the cell level. When the body remains properly hydrated, it removes toxins more efficiently, which is essential for warding off illness. If you dislike drinking plain water, think about mixing herbal drinks or adding lemon to increase your fluid intake.
Boost Your Immune System
Consider enhancing your immune system during flu season by adding extra vitamins C, D, and some zinc to your diet. Plenty of veggies, citrus, and berries are foods that naturally contain these supplements and ought to be eaten on a daily basis. If not, take into account the capsule or pill form because they support strong bones, blood pressure, and the removal of free radicals from the body. Not to mention that they help to prevent or hasten the recovery from colds and viruses.
Exercise
Your immune system will be strengthened by maintaining an active lifestyle, which also enables you to avoid weight gain and lowers your respiratory infection risk. Additionally, physical activity relieves stress and lowers the chance of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Find time to exercise daily, even if you’re on the road. Even 15 minutes of daily walking is beneficial.
Try Avoiding Junkfood
Most people enjoy some junk food or snacks with minimum or no benefits to their health. Consider switching to a healthy alternative if your vice is alcohol, caffeine, sweets, or tobacco because these substances drain the body of micronutrients and harm the immune system.
Practice Self-Care
It’s crucial to do the things you enjoy in your downtime in addition to getting a decent night’s sleep. There are several advantages to setting out daily self-care time. These beneficial routines support your overall wellness, prevent illness and disease, and reduce stress.
Wash Your Hands
One of the greatest methods to eliminate germs is washing your hands, which is crucial during the flu season. Truckers frequently travel through a variety of inhabited locations, and germs transmit through touch. There are several opportunities to come into contact with sick people, including visits at truck stops, eating out, and refueling the truck. Open doors with a paper towel after washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If washing your hands isn’t possible, at least apply hand sanitizer frequently throughout the day.
Keep the Truck’s Cabin Clean
Truckers spend many hours in their vehicles on long trips, stopping often. Since your truck is your temporary home, keeping it clean is a smart idea. Cleaning your truck is not only about being comfortable; it’s about hygiene as well. By keeping your cabin clean you reduce your exposure to the nasty flu and virus germs that might be hiding on the handles, steering wheel, and dashboard.
Get the Flu Shot
The CDC estimates that getting the flu shot cuts the chance of getting the virus by 40 to 60%. Consult your doctor if you’re worried about getting sick. Additionally, taking good care of oneself through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a positive mindset will help you stay healthy and feel better every day. Know your limits when you’re sick while driving and don’t exert too much pressure. By nature, truck drivers are independent and diligent workers. They want to get the work done. You’re not at your best because of the adverse effects that cold and flu symptoms have on your body. Always put your safety first, and take a break if you need one.