Holidays and sickness

[67anxiousgoat]

This time of year when you are basically required to be among more people whether family or out shopping you put yourself at risk of catching a cold or the flu. In my case that always leads to pneumonia. If my daughter , her husband or any of the grandkids are sick I just tell them we'll get together when everyone is well. It's sad but that is just one of the issues you face with COPD.

[R2B_Joe Partner]

I try to be vigilant with hand washing and if someone is sick I politely decline a hug or handshake. Do you have any strategies that seem to work?

[R2B_Bonnie Moderator]

This may sound crazy - But I would wear a mask .... not to protect me so much as to have others think I was contagious & they would stay away - worked great with relatives/ friends and most of all strangers... ((BONUS))

[Collie4]

So true. I get worried this time of year. Family keep away if theres any colds etc going round. I shop mostly online to avoid having to go amongst germs in shops.

Hand washing is extra vigorous too, as germs spread so easily.

I hope friends on here have managed to stay well, but for those who are more poorly i wish you well.

Take care.

[Feelingblessed2013]

I wash my hands, keep hand sanitizer close at all times. Still managed to catch a head cold that doesn't seem to want to go away . Bonnie, I like your idea of wearing a mask, I think I need to get some.

[R2B_Michele_RRT Partner]

All great tips for the holidays and this time of year. If you have COPD you are more prone to respiratory infections. Hand sanitizers, washing hands, and masks are great ways to lessen the possibility of catching those germs.