The notable coronavirus has infected more than 71,000 people globally. There are 157 confirmed cases of this deadly disease in the United States, according to Market Watch. In addition to this, the most alarming aspect of the coronavirus is that its symptoms closely  mirror those of the flu, such as fever, cough, body aches and extreme fatigue.

 In contrast to the coronavirus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there have been at least 26 million cases of the flu in the U.S. this season, and of those, 14,000 have died. This means that the flu poses a much more horrifying threat to Americans. How might one fight the flu? What measures can one make to avoid catching this deadly disease? 

Moving forward, the most important action one can take to steer clear from the flu is to receive the flu vaccine. The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. It should be noted, a flu vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be most common for the season. It is highly encouraged for everyone, especially young children and people with chronic health conditions, to get vaccinated every year. 

Besides taking significant measures like a vaccination, one should also take smaller and more mindful steps to avoid catching the flu. As simple as it sounds, washing hands regularly can save one from infectious diseases. Not only should one wash their hands regularly, but also make a conscious effort not to touch the nose, mouth or eyes. According to Healthline, the flu virus can travel in the air, but it can also enter the body when infected hands touch the face. If one is unable to wash their hands in a particular situation, consider carrying a bottle of hand sanitizer. This can come in handy after shaking hands, touching doorknobs, light switches or anything of that sort. 

Moreover, another conscious effort one can practice is good health habits. This can range anywhere from sleeping for at least seven hours a night, maintaining regular physical activity and eating a nutritious diet. Undoubtedly, these measures help to strengthen one’s immune system, thus it aiding one’s body to fight off potential infections. 

All in all, the flu poses a much more significant threat to Americans than the coronavirus. This is why one must take measures in order to avoid catching this threatening disease. There are many ways to do so, such as receiving a vaccination, practicing good hygiene as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle.