Though cold and flu season are winding down, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take care of yourself. Summertime comes with its own health risks, some of which might prove serious if you don’t pay attention.
How do you keep yourself safe when hot weather and vacation risks threaten? What care should you seek when problems develop? 
Common Summertime Health Risks
During the summer, you will probably get outside a lot more than you did during the winter. As a result, you might face certain health or safety risks. These often relate to environmental and social hazards. Some common summer illnesses might include:
- Animal or bug bites, as well as insect stings. These bring with them threats of infection, allergic reaction and more.
- Sun and heat-related illnesses. Sunburn, sun poisoning, heat stroke and other reactions might lead to significant internal and external injury.
- Dehydration due to elevated physical activity and humidity present during the summer.
- Sports injuries, like broken bones, stress injuries and more.
- Breathing issues related to poor air quality and elevated humidity.
- Water-related injuries, including drowning, hypothermia, pneumonia, aspiration and more.
Not to mention, standard health risks can beckon at any time of the year, not just during the winter. Different interactions might always lead to colds, viruses and even the flu. So, how do you lower your risk of getting sick?
Preventing Summer Illness
Sickness isn’t always at the forefront of your mind when you head out for a day of fun in the sun. However, you don’t have to make it a focus to adequately keep yourself safe. Take the time to remember these common safety tips, and you can go a long way towards staying healthy.
Keep sunscreen, bug spray, hats, water, snacks and other items on hand as needed. Use these items to fend off sunburn, dehydration, low blood sugars and bug bites.
If you plan to take part in special activities, think about what safety precautions you need to take. Will you need equipment like helmets or harnesses? Should you avoid certain activities if you have special health needs? Take a few moments to think about how partaking in an activity might harm you. As long as you participate safely, you can likely go about your business with few worries. As always, don't forget to wash your hands, eat a balanced diet and get plenty of sleep. You can keep your body in prime shape that way.
If you need to seek medical attention this summer, turn to your health insurance plan. It will usually cover some or all the costs receiving care, with a few exceptions. If you ever have questions about where to get care, contact our agency or the insurance company.