As we prepare for the end of 2015, the Baltimore City Health Department wants to offer some tips to ensure you and your family have a healthy holiday season.

1)    Prepare yourself (and your family) for the flu.

Flu season is well under way, but it is not too late to take steps to prevent ourselves from getting sick—and keep us from spreading sickness to others around us, including children and older adults:

• Get your flu vaccine; it is safe, effective, and can be lifesaving.
• Wash your hands with soap and water.
•  While not everything is the flu, most are other viruses which can also be prevented.

2) Dress warmly.

We’ve enjoyed a warm fall this year, but we know that this is Baltimore and so the weather can turn cold quickly, so make sure to:

• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing.
• Always wear a head covering, like a hat and/or scarf, when outdoors.
• Protect yourself against falls in icy or snowy conditions.
• Check on those who are children, the elderly and/or chronically ill.
• Provide appropriate shelter for domestic animals.

3) Watch that Eggnog!

While this is the time of season for all kinds of merriment: gumdrops, sugar plums, and other holiday treats, make sure to be careful about what you eat this season:

• Limit your sodium intake. Too much sodium puts excess burden on your heart and blood vessels. Limiting your sodium can help you lower or high blood pressure and can help you avoid heart disease and stroke. So, skip that extra slice of ham.
• Responsibly monitor alcohol consumption. Whether or not you love eggnog, just be careful about what your drink and monitor your consumption this season. Remember, don’t drink and drive.

4) Deck Healthy Halls.

You’ve got the lights up, a wreath on the door, and all the presents wrapped neatly, but to make your home truly holiday ready, take a few precautions:

• Check your carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that can cause permanent damage and be lethal. Make sure your home’s carbon monoxide detector has fresh batteries to prevent this silent killer.
• Make sure all appliances are turned off, especially gas stoves, ovens, coffeemakers, and irons.
• If you are leaving for a trip turn off everything you don’t need—and try not to forget anything.

 5) Reach out to those you care about.

During this time of year, those suffering from depression, anxiety, and other conditions may need additional support:

• If you notice that a friend, family member, or coworker seems more withdrawn or has sudden changes in behavior, please encourage them to seek assistance.
• BCHD recently launched a new Crisis, Information & Referral line, a reliable, easy-to-use, 24/7 resource allows us to deliver life-saving crisis treatment and connect patients and their families to obtain the treatment they need. Please call 410-433-5175 for any and all mental health and addiction concerns.