How To Stay Healthy During Winter In Philadelphia

This article is not medical advice.

The colder months can bring along a unique set of challenges for residents of Philadelphia. There’s cold and flu season, harsh winter weather and more. But with the right knowledge and some preparation, Philly residents have a much better chance of keeping healthy. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and healthy as temperatures drop in the City of Brotherly Love.

Protect Yourself Against The Cold And Flu

Each year, Philly residents and others across the country do their best to manage runny noses, scratchy throats and other maladies as we enter into cold and flu season. Fortunately, one of the biggest steps you can take to protect yourself against the flu is by getting a flu shot. If you’re worried about digging deep into your wallet to pay for your flu shot, GoodRx provides an easy and affordable way to receive your vaccination.

The GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program has partnered with various pharmacies — including Walgreens, Albertsons and Weis — to offer you low prices on the flu vaccine. Using GoodRx's flu vaccine finder, you're able to search for pharmacies in Philadelphia that are participating in the GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program. The usual price for a flu vaccine can be up to $90; but with the GoodRx Flu Vaccine Program, these prices can drop down to as low as $25 per vaccine. Simply bring your GoodRx coupon to a participating pharmacy and receive your flu vaccine of choice.

Additional steps you can take to protect yourself against both the flu and common cold include:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Staying away from people who are sick.
• Avoiding touching your nose, eyes and mouth with unwashed hands.

Prevent Hypothermia And Frostbite With These Simple Tips

With lows in Philly known to reach the 20s and 30s (with the possibility for even chillier temps), hypothermia and frostbite are both very real possibilities. Hypothermia is a condition that’s caused when a person is exposed to very cold temperatures for a prolonged period. Warning signs may include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory loss and slurred speech. To decrease your chances of falling victim to hypothermia, be sure to limit your time outside, wear the appropriate clothing when outdoors and keep your clothing and outerwear dry.

Another condition that can occur in cold temperatures is frostbite. Frostbite can lead to a loss of feeling and color in the areas affected (nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes). Similar to prevention against hypothermia, frostbite can be avoided by limiting your time outside and wearing the appropriate clothing and accessories (hats, mittens, sock liners).

If you observe signs of hypothermia or frostbite, you should seek medical care immediately.

Winterize Your Home

Keeping healthy this winter often starts at home. When Old Man Winter starts to blow through Philadelphia, it’s time to begin making changes inside and outside of your home to keep safe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests making a handful of changes to your home, including:

• Install weather stripping, insulation and storm windows. Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls. Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks.
• Check your heating system by having it serviced professionally. Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys. Have a safe alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.
• Install a working smoke detector if you don’t have one or check your existing smoke detectors. Install a carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your home as well.

Turn To GoodRx For Your Health Care Needs

During the colder months, having a helping hand when you need it is essential. More than just a helping hand, GoodRx is a great resource if you want to save big on prescriptions or even save yourself a chilly commute to the doctor’s office by meeting with a healthcare provider online using GoodRx Care. While connecting virtually with a healthcare provider, you can discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing and receive a diagnosis.

Additionally, the easy-to-use GoodRx app makes it simple to find prescriptions near you, and tools such as the GoodRx flu vaccine finder allow you to quickly and easily find flu shot providers in Philly.

Visit GoodRx today to save big on prescriptions or schedule a virtual appointment with a doctor.