When it's flu season, you can be exposed to the germs no matter how much you try to avoid them. Every time you leave the house, there is the chance that you will come into contact with flu germs, and this puts you at risk for catching it. If you are an otherwise healthy person, then the chances are good that you will get through the flu just fine, but you will feel horrible while you have it. If you have a compromised immune system, have an already existing lung problem or you are in your senior years, then you are at risk of flu complications and it's even more important for you to avoid catching it.

Get your flu shots

Getting a flu shot is the best way to help prevent yourself from catching the flu. If you have a big fear of needles, there is also a nasal spray that accomplishes the same goal as the shot. You can generally get the flu shot at your doctor's office. However, if you aren't able to get in soon, then you can also get it at most local pharmacies and at some grocery chain stores at the onset of flu season.

Note: If you have egg sensitivity issues or you have had a reaction to the flu shot in the past, then you should discuss the flu shot with your doctor before getting it.

Use disinfectants when you are out

You should carry hand sanitizer with you when you are out running errands. During flu season, you may pick up flu germs on nearly anything you touch. Money, shopping cart handles, restaurant menus, counters, door handles and ATM buttons and screens are some examples of the common things you may come in contact with when you are out that can be loaded with flu germs. This is why you want to use the hand sanitizer as soon as you leave any establishment and right before you eat at a restaurant.

Take an immune system booster

No matter how hard you try, you may still ingest flu germs and sometimes the flu shot isn't 100% effective. Therefore, taking the best immune system boosters will help your body to fight off the flu on its own. Even if you do get the flu, having a strong immune system can help you to get over it faster.

Now that you have a better understanding of how you can fend off the flu, you'll want to make sure you do those things. Keep in mind that frequent handwashing is also one of the most effective means of preventing yourself from catching many illnesses.