How Can I Prevent Pneumonia?

Do you get the flu vaccine every year?

Do you get the pneumococcal vaccine (especially if you are a smoker)?

Do you often wash your hands with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer?

If you are a smoker, have you stopped smoking?

Do you lead a healthy lifestyle (eat a healthy balanced diet, exercise regularly, get enough sleep)?

Do you avoid sick people?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you prevent pneumonia. It would be good to get an annual flu vaccine, because pneumonia often develops as a complication of the flu. You can also get the pneumococcal vaccine, especially if you are a smoker or over the age of 65. Smoking damages the lungs and reduces their ability to fight infections, so if you are a smoker, try to quit smoking. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after blowing your nose or going to the bathroom. If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to prevent pneumonia. You should try to avoid sick people, because respiratory infections are easily transmitted from one person to another. A strong immune system will make it easier to fight the flu, so you need to lead a healthy lifestyle. Eat a healthy balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly and get enough sleep. If you do get a respiratory infection, a strong immune system will help you recover faster. Be aware of your general health, and if you notice symptoms that last longer than a few days, be sure to call your doctor.