Masks. Ubiquitous for a long time during the height of COVID. Now it’s fairly rare to see more than a few folks wearing them.
However, not only is COVID not “over,” there’s still flu, RSV, and other nasty respiratory bugs that can partly be stymied by wearing a mask.
In addition, if you want to keep your lungs healthy, there is definitely a place for using masks beyond screening out viruses and bacteria.
Wear a mask when you clean a dusty area, use strong chemical cleaners, or spray paint. Wear a mask if you have to be outdoors when your local air quality is poor.
In addition to using a mask, there are other things you should do to protect your lungs. Needless to say, don’t smoke.
Think about how to keep your indoor air quality as good as possible. Use your hood vent when you cook with gas, and consider switching to electric.
Use cleaning products that are labeled “Safer Choice” by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Use an air purifier. (See Consumer Reports to help you find a top-rated one.)
To promote overall good health, strengthen your immune system, and prevent inflammation, eat a healthy Mediterranean diet.
Wash your hands.
Get vaccines:
- Pneumococcal
- COVID-19
For age 65 and up, the CDC recommends an updated bivalent booster. Flu – Get one around the beginning of October. Even if it doesn’t prevent the flu, it likely will make it milder.