The flu seems to be at an all time high this year, with more and more people getting sick across the country. CBS News reports the strand of the influenza-causing virus this year, H3N2, has come as a surprise attack the flu vaccination provides no counterattack or even protection against it. CBS News also further reports that 29 states in total have confirmed cases of H3N2 and as those numbers continue to grow more people will be faced with the unfortunate task of rest and recovery. Thomas Sullivan, senior, was out with the flu for a full week and two days as the virus ravaged his body. Sullivan believes the worst part was his “ inability to move, physically and mentally.” Another victim to the flu, Nicole Zingale, junior, believes the worst part of fighting the flu was that her, “eyes hurt.” Influenza is the last thing anyone wants to contract to start their year, so here are the top five things you can do to keep yourself a little healthier this winter season.

1. Wash Up

It sounds elementary, “Sing the ABC’s,” but it really is vital. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports, due to the fact we touch our faces, mouth, eyes, etc. every day, and then touch handrails and door knobs, by washing your hands you can stop the spread of any infectious diseases you may be carrying. So please do us all a favor and wash your hands!

2. Grab A Cup

Water is essential in keeping your body normal and functioning. Staying hydrated is as easy as substituting the soft drink you are having with a tall glass of water. According to the CDC, by drinking water, you not can only keep your body well hydrated, but also if you do begin to come down with the flu, water will help to keep your temperature stable and replenish your body. The smartest thing you could do is pour yourself a glass.

3.  Hit The Hay

Many high schoolers like Nicole Reno, junior, may struggle getting the recommended nine to ten hours of sleep because of the mentality, “who needs sleep when you’ve got Netflix.” Although it is hard, shut the computer and get some sleep! Just think of sleep as the literal new beginning to every day. According to Health.com, sleep brings down stress levels, sharpens our attention and improves memory keeping us functioning normally. Don’t feel ashamed if you hit the snooze bar, it may be in your body’s best interest!

4. Eat Well

By making sure you are putting the best disease fighting and overall beneficial nutrients into your body, preventing the flu from within is beneficial and easy. Both overeating and undereating are obvious to be avoided; the key is to find a balance. Eat fresh vegetables, fruits and meats, all which can provide the benefits and vitamins which help build up your immune system, according to the CDC.

5. Keep Moving

Staying active and getting the recommended one hour of continual movement may sound difficult to some, but it really won’t be that bad. Consider all the times you sat when you could have stood, or even driven when you could have walked. There are easy ways you can get a little more physical activity, such as parking farther away from the entrance to a store so you have to walk farther. The little things in the end will add up, so just keep moving!