Common health conditions can affect our daily lives – from the common cold and seasonal flu to first aid and wound care. Managing your daily health can prevent bigger, sometimes life-threatening, health issues like diseases and infections.

Viruses, like the cold and flu, can be contracted through your mouth, nose, or eyes when there are airborne droplets from a cough or sneeze from an infected person. Viruses can remain infectious for hours, which is why proper hygiene is essential in public settings and especially during “flu season.”

Complications from these viruses can be as severe as sepsis or inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis), or muscles (myositis, rhabdomyolysis).

Another common health concern is infection from wounds or after a surgery. Something as simple as cooking dinner can result in an injury that require medical attention and knowing how to react to an injury in a safe and timely manner can prevent an unnecessary infection and illness.

It’s essential for good health to be aware of common health conditions and how to take care of yourself on the daily basis because injury and sickness can come out of nowhere. Educate yourself on best practices and keep the proper first aid equipment and over-the-counter medications on hand to be prepared for any instance.