{"id":245023,"date":"2025-08-18T12:05:26","date_gmt":"2025-08-18T08:05:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/?page_id=245023"},"modified":"2025-08-18T12:20:53","modified_gmt":"2025-08-18T08:20:53","slug":"september-2025-preparing-for-cold-and-flu-season-what-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/?page_id=245023","title":{"rendered":"September 2025 Preparing for Cold and Flu Season: What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; admin_label=&#8221;Header&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_image=&#8221;https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/10321_CalendarBanners_InfoBanners-scaled.jpg&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10vw||20vw||false|false&#8221; collapsed=&#8221;on&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; saved_tabs=&#8221;all&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#27AAE1&#8243; width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; module_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;&#8211;et_global_body_font||||||||&#8221; header_font=&#8221;Sarabun|700||on|||||&#8221; header_text_align=&#8221;center&#8221; header_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; header_font_size=&#8221;42px&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#27AAE1&#8243; module_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;4px|20px|2px|20px|false|true&#8221; header_font_tablet=&#8221;Sarabun|700||on|||||&#8221; header_font_phone=&#8221;Sarabun|700||on|||||&#8221; header_font_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; header_font_size_tablet=&#8221;34px&#8221; header_font_size_phone=&#8221;25px&#8221; header_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h1>Preparing for Cold and Flu Season: What You Need to Know<\/h1>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;40px||20px||false|false&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=&#8221;on&#8221; make_equal=&#8221;on&#8221; custom_padding_last_edited=&#8221;on|tablet&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; width=&#8221;90%&#8221; width_tablet=&#8221;90%&#8221; width_phone=&#8221;90%&#8221; width_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; max_width=&#8221;90%&#8221; max_width_tablet=&#8221;90%&#8221; max_width_phone=&#8221;90%&#8221; max_width_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||true|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;||||true|false&#8221; custom_padding_tablet=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; custom_padding_phone=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text content_tablet=&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=%222025-ET-Intro%22>\n<p><span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Self-care isn\u2019t a luxury; it\u2019s a necessity. When life gets busy, it\u2019s easy to put self-care on the back burner. But neglecting your own well-being leads to stress, burnout, and an inability to truly enjoy life. The key to balancing work and life is making self-care a priority, not just when you\u2019re feeling overwhelmed, but as a regular practice.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Here\u2019s why self-care matters:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span>Physical Health<\/span><\/strong><span>: Taking care of your body through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and enough sleep is essential for staying energized and productive at work and home.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Mental Health<\/span><\/strong><span>: Practices like meditation, journaling, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity. Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Emotional Wellbeing<\/span><\/strong><span>: Spend time with people who support and uplift you. Whether it\u2019s family, friends, or a therapist, make sure you have a strong support system that helps you manage life\u2019s ups and downs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Downtime<\/span><\/strong><span>: Don\u2019t overlook the importance of doing nothing. Sometimes, simply relaxing and doing what you enjoy\u2014without any pressure\u2014can help you recharge.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>To integrate self-care into your life:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span>Exercise Regularly<\/span><\/strong><span>: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a few times a week to keep your body and mind in balance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Practice Mindfulness<\/span><\/strong><span>: Engage in activities like meditation or yoga to calm your mind and body.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Schedule Downtime<\/span><\/strong><span>: Treat personal time as an important part of your schedule. Whether it\u2019s reading, walking, or spending time with loved ones, make room for relaxation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Sleep Well<\/span><\/strong><span>: Prioritize sleep by creating a consistent bedtime routine to ensure you\u2019re well-rested and ready for the next day.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Self-care is the foundation for achieving a healthy work-life balance. By taking care of yourself, you\u2019ll have the energy, clarity, and resilience to balance the demands of work and life with ease.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=%222025-ET-Desc%22><\/div>\n<div class=%22custom-box%22>\n<div class=%22sub-box%22><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&#8221; content_phone=&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=%222025-ET-Intro%22>\n<p><span><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=%22font-weight: 400;%22><span>Did you know that flu viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours? Although the Middle East has relatively mild weather throughout the year, flu and cold viruses still pose a risk during the cooler months. With increased indoor activities, air conditioning, and the transition between seasons, it\u2019s essential to prepare yourself and your family for the cold and flu season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=%22font-weight: 400;%22><strong><span>Why Does Cold and Flu Season Happen?<\/span><\/strong><span><br \/>Cold and flu season is linked to several factors that increase virus transmission. Even though we don\u2019t experience harsh winters, the transition from hot to cooler temperatures causes people to spend more time indoors, where viruses spread more easily in crowded, air-conditioned spaces. Changes in humidity and air quality can also affect respiratory health, making it easier for viruses to infect the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=%22font-weight: 400;%22><strong><span>When Does Cold and Flu Season Hit?<\/span><\/strong><span><br \/>In the Middle East, cold and flu season generally begins in the fall as temperatures cool slightly, with an uptick in cases often occurring around late November and December. This season can last into the early spring, with flu peaks typically seen between December and February. However, due to travel, public gatherings, and air-conditioned environments, viruses can circulate earlier or later.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=%22font-weight: 400;%22><strong><span>How Can You and Your Family Prepare?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul style=%22font-weight: 400;%22>\n<li><strong><span>Get Vaccinated<\/span><\/strong><span>: The flu vaccine is the most effective preventive measure. Everyone over 6 months old should get the flu shot, especially those who are most vulnerable (children, elderly, those with chronic health conditions).<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Practice Good Hygiene<\/span><\/strong><span>: Encourage your family to wash their hands frequently, especially after being in public spaces or touching shared surfaces. Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren\u2019t available.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Stay Hydrated and Eat Well<\/span><\/strong><span>: A strong immune system is key to preventing illness. Make sure your family eats a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Rest and Exercise<\/span><\/strong><span>: Adequate rest and regular exercise help strengthen the immune system. Prioritize sleep and stay active to improve overall health.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=%22font-weight: 400;%22><span>By taking these steps early, you\u2019ll be ready to tackle the flu season and keep your family protected.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=%222025-ET-Desc%22><\/div>\n<div class=%22custom-box%22>\n<div class=%22sub-box%22><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&#8221; content_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_css_free_form=&#8221;\/* Global header font style *\/||h2, h3, h4, h5, h6 {||    font-family: &#8216;Sarabun&#8217;, sans-serif !important; \/* Apply Sarabun font *\/||    font-weight: 400 !important; \/* Use thin weight *\/||    color: #00aeef !important; \/* Blue color *\/||    text-transform: uppercase !important; \/* Uppercase for all headers *\/||    font-size: 1.5em !important; \/* Smaller font size *\/||    margin-top: 10px;||    margin-bottom: 1px; \/* Small margin below the header *\/||}||||\/* Adjust paragraph and bullets space before headers *\/||#2025-ET-Desc, #2025-ET-Intro {||    margin-bottom: 50px; \/* Increased space after paragraphs *\/||}||||\/* Add smaller space after headers when followed by paragraph or bullets *\/||#2025-ET-Headers + #2025-ET-Desc, ||#2025-ET-Headers + #2025-ET-Intro {||    margin-top: 5px !important; \/* Increased space after header *\/||}||||\/* Mobile and tablet adjustments *\/||@media only screen and (max-width: 980px) {||    \/* Adjust header size for tablets\/mobile *\/||    h2, h3, h4, h5, h6 {||        font-size: 1.5em !important; \/* Smaller font size on tablet\/mobile *\/||    }||    ||    \/* Reduce excessive space for mobile\/tablet *\/||    #2025-ET-Desc, #2025-ET-Intro {||        margin-bottom: 10px !important; \/* Less space after paragraphs on mobile *\/||    }||||    \/* Ensure spacing is consistent across headers and following paragraphs *\/||    #2025-ET-Headers + #2025-ET-Desc, ||    #2025-ET-Headers + #2025-ET-Intro {||        margin-top: 5px !important; \/* Smaller margin between header and content *\/||    }||}||||\/* Adjust content-style spacing for smaller screens *\/||@media only screen and (max-width: 768px) {||    .content-style {||        margin-top: 10px !important; \/* Ensuring space is adjusted on smaller screens *\/||        margin-bottom: 5px !important; \/* Reduced space on smaller screens *\/||    }||    ||    \/* Adjust other margin values in this section to fit mobile views *\/||    #2025-ET-Headers {||        margin-top: 5px !important; \/* Slightly more spacing above headers *\/||    }||  ||  ||||}||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span>Did you know that flu viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours? Although the Middle East has relatively mild weather throughout the year, flu and cold viruses still pose a risk during the cooler months. With increased indoor activities, air conditioning, and the transition between seasons, it\u2019s essential to prepare yourself and your family for the cold and flu season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong><span>Why Does Cold and Flu Season Happen?<\/span><\/strong><span><br \/>Cold and flu season is linked to several factors that increase virus transmission. Even though we don\u2019t experience harsh winters, the transition from hot to cooler temperatures causes people to spend more time indoors, where viruses spread more easily in crowded, air-conditioned spaces. Changes in humidity and air quality can also affect respiratory health, making it easier for viruses to infect the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong><span>When Does Cold and Flu Season Hit?<\/span><\/strong><span><br \/>In the Middle East, cold and flu season generally begins in the fall as temperatures cool slightly, with an uptick in cases often occurring around late November and December. This season can last into the early spring, with flu peaks typically seen between December and February. However, due to travel, public gatherings, and air-conditioned environments, viruses can circulate earlier or later.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong><span>How Can You and Your Family Prepare?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<li><strong><span>Get Vaccinated<\/span><\/strong><span>: The flu vaccine is the most effective preventive measure. Everyone over 6 months old should get the flu shot, especially those who are most vulnerable (children, elderly, those with chronic health conditions).<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Practice Good Hygiene<\/span><\/strong><span>: Encourage your family to wash their hands frequently, especially after being in public spaces or touching shared surfaces. Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren\u2019t available.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Stay Hydrated and Eat Well<\/span><\/strong><span>: A strong immune system is key to preventing illness. Make sure your family eats a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong><span>Rest and Exercise<\/span><\/strong><span>: Adequate rest and regular exercise help strengthen the immune system. Prioritize sleep and stay active to improve overall health.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span>By taking these steps early, you\u2019ll be ready to tackle the flu season and keep your family protected.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=&#8221;on&#8221; make_equal=&#8221;on&#8221; custom_padding_last_edited=&#8221;on|tablet&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; width=&#8221;90%&#8221; width_tablet=&#8221;90%&#8221; width_phone=&#8221;90%&#8221; width_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; max_width=&#8221;90%&#8221; max_width_tablet=&#8221;90%&#8221; max_width_phone=&#8221;90%&#8221; max_width_last_edited=&#8221;on|desktop&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||true|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;||||true|false&#8221; custom_padding_tablet=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; custom_padding_phone=&#8221;0px||0px||true|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Preparing for Cold and Flu Season: What You Need to KnowDid you know that flu viruses can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours? Although the Middle East has relatively mild weather throughout the year, flu and cold viruses still pose a risk during the cooler months. With increased indoor activities, air conditioning, and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":244443,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-245023","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/245023","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=245023"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/245023\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":245122,"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/245023\/revisions\/245122"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/244443"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mindyourhealth.lockton-mena.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=245023"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}