Families must protect their homes from invisible invaders every winter – cold germs, flu viruses. It can be difficult to stay flu-free throughout winter. You can enforce handwashing at home and elbow-coughing at school, but if one child gets sick at school, the rest of your family will be affected.

What’s the best way for your family to stay healthy this winter? It’s true that sometimes cliches are right: good defense is better offense. Your family member will be better equipped to fight off colds and flu by strengthening their immune system.

PharmaCare, which specializes in immune-boosting drugs, has the following tips for families who want to avoid getting sick this winter.

Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face. Your best defense against the flu and cold is to wash you hands. Direct contact is the most common way germs spread. For example, if a sick person touches something and then someone healthy handles it, they can pick up germs from their hands. You should wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, and avoid touching your face. The eyes, nose and mouth are where cold and flu viruses can enter your system. After wiping the nose of a child who has a runny nose, use a hand soap.

Give your immune systems what it needs. Consume lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and other nutrients to keep your immune system strong.

Consider taking an immune-boosting vitamin. Sambucol, an elderberry extract with high levels of flavanoids and powerful antioxidants, can help support your immune function. Sambucol also has a children’s version that can help improve the health of your entire family.

Keep active. Although it may seem impossible, going outside in cold weather can help you avoid getting sick. Staying indoors will mean you are more likely to come into contact with others, which allows germs to spread. The central heating can also dry out your nasal passages, making you more susceptible to infection.

Consider taking your kids skiing or sledding. You can even shovel snowmen or build them. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise can improve immune function and reduce stress. Another factor that can increase your chances for getting a cold or flu is that it increases the likelihood of you getting one.

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The pace of life today is rapid. People can check their kids’ soccer scores on the phone, while also sending emails to work with the help of digital technology. Consumers can expect the same conveniences and benefits from all businesses, except their insurance companies, thanks to the internet age. For those who are struggling to pay their medical bills and need health insurance, 98 per cent of claims can be processed in under 30 days.

It is no longer enough to be insured, as nearly two-thirds of American households have less income than 2002. It’s vital to understand how quickly and efficiently your insurance carrier pays claims. This is important for both financial and medical recovery.

According to a recent survey, 66% of workers would struggle to pay for the financial burdens associated with serious injuries and illnesses. Only 49% have enough money to cover out-of pocket expenses. Additionally, rising healthcare costs are forcing employers into cost-saving measures that are putting employees under greater financial pressure.

* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.

* Increasing employees’ share of premium.

* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.

Some people might have to wait as long as a month to receive their insurance payments. Many insurance companies strive to provide fast service with better technology and better understanding of customers’ needs. This is one example. AflacIt is almost rare for insurance companies to offer policies that include claims processing, approval, and payment in a single day.

Fast payment policies are no longer luxury items of the past. It’s a necessity. It’s vital to have funds readily available for serious illness or injury. You should ensure that your insurance company can move at your pace.

Aflac’s One Day Pay Promise can be found at aflac.com/onedaypay.