Winter Season Preparedness

Inclement weather is inevitably approaching us all, and unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic lingers with us into a new and more dangerous season. In a normal year, we would worry about influenza and hazardous conditions brought upon by the weather around this time. We now have more reasons than ever before to educate ourselves and form safe habits around the flurry, or maybe the “squall” (a term for ‘sudden blowing snow’, which many Iowans learned this past year) of activities and habits that come with the winter season!

In just a couple weeks, many people will be making decisions about whether to travel to see loved ones. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that the effects of the pandemic are intensified from holiday gatherings and harsh winter weather. Below are a few tips to stay healthy and safe in the weeks and months to come:

Maintain healthy exercise and eating habits. While the cold weather does not allow many of us to exercise in fresh air, it’s still important to find ways to stay active. Whether you get a membership at our Wellness Center or have the means to exercise within your home, ensure you are moving your body. Watch your nutrition carefully and make sure you are getting equal parts of the necessary foods your body needs. Speak with your provider about supplementing with vitamins if you are concerned about your nourishment.

Take care of your mental health. During the winter months it can be easier to find ourselves in depressive episodes, and even more so with lack of interaction during the pandemic. Check in with your loved ones for mutual support in safe ways, like a FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom call. Manage a to-do list and include self care tasks, such as a bath, a walk, or a time to watch an episode of your favorite show. Prioritizing the little things add up and contribute to our wellbeing, giving us the mental space to accomplish bigger tasks at home or at work.

If you haven’t yet, get your flu shot. It’s not too late to protect yourself and your community against this illness. Unfortunately, it’s possible to get the flu and COVID-19 at once. While the vaccine for COVID-19 awaits around the corner, you can decrease your chances of an untimely double illness by acquiring the flu shot. You can receive a free flu vaccination from Osceola Community Health Services by scheduling an appointment at 712-754-5373.

Act with caution on the ice. Cold weather can present icy conditions, especially when topped with snow. If you find yourself in a position where you are unable to avoid walking on the ice, make sure to walk slowly, take small steps, keep your head up, and take your hands out of your pockets to maintain more balance. Get ahead of the ice surrounding your home by sprinkling ice melt or sand on the patches. While driving in icy conditions, accelerate and decelerate your speed slowly, increase your following distance, and know how to use your brakes. Of course, avoid travelling when hazardous road conditions have been announced. Additionally, it may be worthwhile to have your tires and brakes checked out around this time of year.

Monitor yourself for COVID-19 symptoms and be careful around others. Avoid public spaces beyond essential errands whenever possible to protect your loved ones and fellow community members. We each play a role in slowing the spread of COVID-19. If you choose to travel this holiday season, take all safety precautions: Wear a mask when around others and keep at least six feet of distance between one another, cover your coughs and sneezes, and wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or use hand sanitizer regularly.

Winter surely comes with it’s own reasons to worry, but if you follow these suggestions, you’ll be ready to dodge them.