During these past couple of months, we have seen a spike in COVID-19 cases. Illinois health officials reported 19,551 new COVID-19 cases with 58 additional deaths in late April. Due to these increases in cases and deaths, four Illinois counties have moved to a Medium Community Level risk for COVID-19. Cases continue to stay high for last month as well.
Despite these rises in cases, we all could still do what we can to keep our immune systems healthy. Now is not the time to become complacent and start to put our guard down. Here are a few reminders in staying healthy during these rises.
Bring a Spare Mask with you
Although the mask mandate is rescinded in Illinois and the city of Chicago, it still wouldn’t hurt to bring a spare one wherever you go. As more summer events start to happen, be sure to bring your mask even if you don’t feel like wearing it. Even if you’re vaccinated and boosted, wearing a mask will protect you against this disease which is still out there. So when you and your family or friends plan to go out on the town, be sure you all are still masking up.
Stay Informed about New Variants
It’s also vital to continue to stay well-informed about any new variants of the disease crossing America and how transmissible these are. The recent ones that have crossed the country are the two new Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5. These subvariants have started to gain traction and are being tracked by the CDC. Other variants being tracked are BA.2.12.1, BA.2, B.1.1.529, and BA 1.1. What makes BA.4 and BA.5 different from the others is they could be more contagious.
Keep Your Immune System Healthy
I’ve discussed this in a previous post, but I feel it is worth mentioning again. Be sure you are stocking your household with a lot of immune-boosting foods. Garlic, fruits and veggies, teas, and chicken soup go a long way in keeping your immune system strong. You need those cold and flu-fighting nutrients found in these foods such as Vitamin C, D, E, zinc, and selenium. Garlic helps boost your allium nutrients.
Please Continue Washing your Hands
Now is not the time to fall off in this area. Be sure you’re bringing a hand sanitizer with you everywhere you go. If you have access to a bathroom wherever you go, be sure you’re washing your hands thoroughly for several minutes. Never slack off on practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands at all times if possible.
Continue to stay healthy and safe during these turbulent times. COVID is not over and we must continue to wash our hands and mask up when necessary. If you have any questions or comments about this issue, feel free to leave them in the comments section below. As always, be sure to like or share this post with somebody you care about.
