Believe it or not, flu season has started. Getting the flu is never pleasant and can impact your daily activities for at least a week. Symptoms include a fever, runny nose, cough, headache, body aches, chills, sore throat, and fatigue. Save yourself the headache of dealing with this by taking some precautions. Here are some tips on preventing the flu.
Tips on Preventing the Flu
Get a Flu Shot
The flu shot is the best available protection against contracting the flu. Every year, the flu vaccine is updated to reflect the most commons trains of the flu. Although it will never protect against all possible variations of the virus, it is still the best precaution that you can take. It is particularly important for children and the elderly to get vaccinated as they are at high risk. The CDC recommends flu shots before the end of October, before the typical peak of flu related illnesses.
Minimize the Spread of Germs
In addition to getting a flu shot, it is important to take measures to minimize the spread of germs at this time of year. This can also help prevent the spread of colds and other viruses. Here are a few important measures…
- Clean/disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as door knobs.
- Clean children’s toys frequently.
- Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing.
- Stay home if you are sick, especially with flu-like symptoms.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth (unless you have just washed your hands).
- Avoid direct contact with others (especially if either of you have any symptoms).
- Do not share drinks or food.
See Your Doctor if Flu Symptoms Present
If you believe that you have the flu, see your doctor as soon as possible. A test is typically performed to confirm and antiviral drugs may be prescribed. These drugs work best when started within 2 days of contracting the flu (although they will still work when taken later), so acting quickly can result in faster relief of your flu symptoms.
We hope these tips on preventing the flu will help you and your family remain flu-free this season!
