Flu Facts
Each winter, the flu epidemic swoops down upon us, infecting more than 25 million Americans with the icky virus. The aches, pains, fever and chills are a sure-fire way to send you straight to bed, and sometimes even to the hospital. Since October is the ideal month to start fighting the flu, here are some tips to stay healthy, happy and flu-free all year long!
Have a flu-free family
The best preventative step you can take to fight the flu? Get a shot. This quick stick in the arm is 70 to 90 percent effective in protecting you from the common influenza viruses that send over 100,000 people to the hospital each year (and, contrary to common belief, a flu shot will not cause you to get the flu).The same goes for your kids, too – though not all parents agree. Even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends vaccinations for all children six months to 18 years old, a recent study indicates that 60 percent of parents opted not to get their children a flu shot in the past two years. Your health care provider should offer the shot at your kid’s next check-up. You can also visit the Visiting Nurses Associations of America to find a flu clinic near you.
Signs of the flu
Sometimes, there’s no stopping the flu from creeping into your system. And when it does, you’ll be well aware of its presence by the very sudden onset of aches and pains, chills and extreme lethargy. Other signs? A dry cough, flushed skin and a high fever (up to 104 degrees F.), which may last three to five days. (On the other hand, you may have a cold if you’re congested with a low or mild fever, you don’t have chills, and you aren’t extremely achy).What to do when you have the flu
Since the flu is highly contagious (you can start infecting other people one day before your symptoms even show up), you’ll want to stay away from work and other social settings for five days after becoming sick. During that time, get plenty of rest, drink fluids to replenish those lost by dehydration due to your fever, and, if necessary, take over-the-counter medication like decongestants, cough medicines, and acetaminophen or ibruprofen to treat your stuffy nose, cough and fever.Since an untreated case of a severe flu can lead to bronchitis, ear and sinus infections, and even pneumonia, see your doctor if your symptoms persist for longer than a week, or you are experiencing shortness of breath, severe pain, persistent vomiting or a consistent lightheaded feeling.
Go germ-free
Stop the spread of the flu virus around your house by following these simple steps, courtesy of Say "Boo!" to the Flu program.- Regularly wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.
- Disinfect the surfaces that you and your family touch most frequently -- like doorknobs, light switches, faucets or plastic toys.
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow instead of your hands to help prevent the spread of germs from touch.
- Eat right, exercise and get plenty of sleep to help boost your body's ability to fight the effects of colds and the flu.
More ways to stay healthy this winter!
Flu-fighting foods
Mother Nurture: Boosting your immune system
Top five tips for preventing ear infections
