The flu is going around like crazy this year and if you're anything like me, you refuse to get sick. Between school, work, and trying to be social, life is just too busy to be stuck in bed for days at a time. As I dodge all of the coughs and sneezes that are happening around me, I have come up with a few tips on how to keep that flu away from you.

1. Get the flu shot

This seems super obvious but hey some people can't be bothered. This virus that is going around is just nasty and if getting pricked by a little needle is going to prevent me from feeling like I am on my death bed, you better believe I am going to get it.

2. Keep up with your vitamins

Make sure you are taking a multi-vitamin every single day. If you don't regularly do this, you need to start! Not only will the vitamins help you stay healthy but they may also improve your daily function. I know when I take my vitamins I am always more awake and can get through the day without being sluggish. Everyone needs different vitamins but starting with a multi-vitamin seems pretty promising.

3. Drink your orange juice

Besides taking your daily vitamins you should drink some orange juice. That extra vitamin C in your system does wonders for your body. I have been drinking at least two glasses a day and it has been working so far! If you don't want to drink OJ, try the Emergen-C packets you put into water.

4. Stop touching your face

This may sound childish, but germs generally enter your body through touching your eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. So just stop! I know it can be hard sometimes especially when you are tired, but now that the flu going around, it is a great time to start practicing. You don't always realize what kind of germs are on your hands before touching your face. Think about your computer, your phone, the door knobs, the toilet handle, or if you have touched anyone else's hands.

5. Wash your hands as much as you can

All of those gross places I mentioned in #4, well yeah, they have plenty of germs all over them. Wash your hands frequently or at least use hand sanitizer. Prime times include before and after you eat, and after you use the bathroom. But please don't limit these to the only times you wash your hands.

6. Make sure you are getting plenty of sleep

Try getting on a regular sleep schedule of at least eight hours every night. I know it is hard to do sometimes but keeping your body well rested will help fight off these viruses. You are more susceptible to sickness the weaker and more tired your body is. Also, who doesn't like sleep? This one isn't even a hassle it's just overall beneficial to you!

If you haven't been so lucky and the flu still attacked you even after following all of these tips make sure you get plenty of bed rest. I know like it seems like you are falling behind in work and school, but you will be worse off if you don't just relax and get some rest. Drink some more OJ, keep up with your medicine, and make sure you are staying hydrated. The flu can easily dehydrate you to the point of needing to go to the ER, so don't let that happen. And of course, the best advice of all- go see a doctor! They will do their best to get you back on your feet again. Don't let the flu get the best of you!