We were anxious and befuddled. Apparently, my child was all set to make an entry into this world and the labour pains could start anytime. There was slight spotting and after having a conversation with my gynaecologist over the phone, we rushed to the hospital emergency ward as per her advice. Certain tests were performed, post which we were given the green signal that all was good and we could go back home and wait till there was any further indication from the bun in my oven. While my husband was completing the formalities of making payments etc., there was a sudden commotion in the emergency ward. On inquiring with the staff, we were apprised that there were some swine flu cases and hence, all of us were requested to put on masks and leave the area at the earliest, especially me because I was pregnant. I still remember the trepidation that had gripped me at that moment. I was petrified and clouded by uncomfortable thoughts – What if I caught swine flu? What if I passed it on the child in my womb? The deadly disease had never caused me as much worry before but when it comes to our children, the strongest and most cool-headed of us can experience the jitters.

 The next day I gave birth to a healthy baby girl and since then, not just her health but ours too has become a matter of top priority for us. Swine flu is a contagious and life-threatening disease which has become a menace and every time we hear of these cases, all of us wish to do whatever it takes to protect ourselves and our loved ones from its claws. While there is no sure shot way to prevent contraction of Swine Flu, there are a few hacks we follow in our family to do our best to stay fit and healthy, and fight the attack from flu viruses.

Avoid contact as much as possible –Because swine flu is a highly infectious disease, it is best to avoid contact with someone who is affected by it. If we are ill, we stay at home to avoid spreading of infection to others.

Wash hands regularly and frequently – As we know, our hands are the primary carriers of infection and organisms causing the flu, hence it is imperative that we wash our hands frequently every day with soap and water especially before meals and after returning from a public place. We keep our Dettol sanitizer handy at all times for situations when we don’t have access to soap and water.

Always use a handkerchief or tissue if you are suffering from cold and cough – To prevent dispersal of the transmittable germs in the air, always use a handkerchief or a tissue and cover your nose/mouth when you are coughing or sneezing. Also, keep changing this handkerchief/tissue.  This practice will help shield others from getting infected.

Practice healthy habits – While this is not directly related to swine flu prevention, practicing healthy habits is instrumental in building a strong immune system and promotes overall well-being. It is essential to eat well, sleep well and exercise regularly for mental and physical fitness. It is also very important to stay well-hydrated irrespective of the season.

Go natural – Everyone has their own beliefs and the herbs which work for someone may not work for others. Personally, we have immense faith in the goodness of Tulsi and we rely on it to battle swine influenza and other such diseases. Tulsi has a large number of therapeutic properties. It keeps throat and lungs clear and helps in boosting immunity. We ingest it directly by chewing the leaves which are well washed or sometimes prepare a concoction by boiling Tulsi leaves in water. Apart from Tulsi, we also have benefited from having a pod of raw garlic once a day before sleeping and having warm lemon-honey water first thing in the morning. Additionally, increase in the intake of foods rich in vitamin C aids in improving our body’s resistance mechanism.

Only when I became a mother I truly realized the meaning of the proverb “Health is wealth”. If you have any more ideas or suggestions for preventing flu and improving immunity, please do share in the comments.

// This article has been sponsored by Dettol and was first published on Momspresso and is available at the following link.