Posts Tagged ‘flu season’

As the summer season winds down and we move into fall and winter, there is a lot to look forward to—leaves changing color, the fun of Halloween, and holidays spent in the company of friends and family. Unfortunately, this time of the year is not only football season, but flu season, as well! I have put together some information so you can prepare yourself and your family to stay in good health this flu season.

Symptoms:

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. The most common signs and symptoms people experience due to flu virus are:

1. fever or feeling “chills”

2. cough

3. sore throat

4. runny or stuffy nose

5. muscle or body aches

6. headaches

7. fatigue

It is important to note that not all people with the flu develop a fever. Also, some people experience nausea and/or diarrhea- but these are far less common than the symptoms listed above.

How flu spreads:

Flu virus spreads primarily via droplets made when infected people cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can be taken up by others, causing them to contract the virus. The flu can typically be passed on by an infected person for one day before symptoms develop and up to seven days after becoming ill.

Prevention:

The best way to deal with the flu is to avoid it all together! The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is by getting vaccinated. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all people over the age of 6 months receive a flu vaccine each year. Here at Plain City Druggist we have already received our supply of vaccinations and have begun administering them to patients. Give us a call and we can let you know the best time to come and get your flu shot!

Good health habits for further prevention:

1. Avoid close contact: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.

2. Stay home when you are sick: Stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent others from catching your illness.

3. Cover your mouth and nose: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It will prevent those infectious droplets from becoming airborne.

4. Clean your hands: Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is also a great option and can be conveniently carried with you throughout the day.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth: Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

6. Practice other good health habits: Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

If you follow these guidelines and healthy habits, you and your family will have the best chance of staying flu free this season!

Source: http://www.cdc.gov

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