This post is created after my experiences of having a kidney transplant, however it can be for anyone who has a condition in which they have low immunity. This is a constant battle during the colder months when the flu season comes around. Currently being around 9ºC in Sydney, and being in a situation where I am a frequent user of public transport, here are some skills I’ve picked up which can help ward off those winter bugs.

Keep a stocked bag or pouch:

Winter means coats, thicker clothes and more storage. Make full advantage of this weather, and keep necessary items ready to go which can be fitted into your coat or bag. These include:

Hand Sanitizer: Useful when out and about, and when hand washing facilities aren’t available. Hand sanitising before/after meals and after public transport use is especially key.

Kleenex Wipes or Flushable Tissue Paper: Helpful to take into public restrooms to avoid touching/using the stall toilet paper.

Antiseptic wipes for appliances!! (these don’t have to be in your bag, but using them to wipe down appliances such as phones, laptops and glasses – personal items which regularly come into contact with outside surfaces, as they can very easily come into contact with the flu and gastro virus. 

Water bottle: Self explanatory. Also recommend a flask which can store hot coffee or warm water durin those scratchy throat times

Medications∗

I’ve underlined this, as I’ve wanted to make this a semi-section in itself. Medications are different for everyone, however there are some things as individuals everyone should always keep in a little medicine ‘pouch’ in their bag.

Cold and Flu tablets – this has built in paracetamol and helps combat flu like symptoms

 

 and is good when you feel slightly sniffly

Throat lozenges – Self explanatory

Sticky Heat Packs which can be attached and worm under clothes

Bug Breaking Behaviours 

To help prevent the spread of infection here are some extra possible habits/tips to practice:

• Avoid wearing the same outfit/jacket on public transport and in crowded city areas as at home – this brings bugs in, instead buy a number of jackets and wear each one per day.
• Do not wear shoes in the house
• Wash hands immediately upon entering the house from outside and before consuming food
• Get vaccinated as early as possible
• Restuarants are a frequent place of gastro, avoid eating out as much as possible during this time

∗ The material published on this website is intended for general information only and is not legal advice or other professional advice. Any opinions expressed in this material do not necessarily represent the views of the Copyright Agency.