How to survive the flu season.
The mild weather has come and gone, and the cold reality of winter is finally here. The cold weather brings new health challenges such as the flu, common cold, and respiratory problems. A common myth is that the flu is caused by exposure to low temperatures, and there is not much you can do to protect yourself; but this is not necessarily true. The flu actually occurs when someone is infected with the influenza virus, and has multiple symptoms including muscle weakness, cough, headaches, sore throat, runny nose, fever, and muscle aches.
Here are four things you can do to protect yourself from the flu:
- Take the flu shot: The flu shot is an immunization that is created using an attenuated influenza virus (a weakened form of the virus) and is administered to people of all ages to help prevent or reduce the risk of catching the flu. The flu shot is given during the flu season, which starts in October 10, 2015 and ends in May 21, 2016 (in Pennsylvania). For those who do not like injections, the flu vaccine is also available in an inhalable form, but it is not recommended for senior citizens. According to the CDC, the flu shot has been shown to reduce the risk for getting the flu by 70-90%, therefore it’s a no brainer, unless you have medical contraindications. Please consult your doctor for more information.
- Wash your hands: Hand washing has been shown to be the most effective method of preventing the spread of infection. The flu virus is transmitted via droplets, which can be spread though coughing or sneezing. These droplets can land on surfaces, and be transmitted when you touch those surfaces. Hand washing reduces the transmission risk. It is recommended to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Antibacterial hand soap is recommended, but it is not a requirement. Another effective way of maintaining hand hygiene is by using hand sanitizer. Just apply enough sanitizer to wet your hands, then rub them together until they are dry.
- Avoid exposure to flu: The flu is usually spread by being in close contact with individuals who are already infected with the flu virus. If you believe someone has the flu, it is advisable to avoid close contact with the individual. If close contact is unavoidable, you could wear a respiratory mask to reduce the risk for infection. It’s also a good idea to avoid large crowds. Greater Homecare has policies in place, and provides staff trainings to help prevent the spread of the flu in the home care setting. We require flu shots, promote hand washing, and if a staff member has the flu, we advise them to avoid client contact until they have recovered.
- Use a humidifier: Research has shown that the flu occurs during the winter because the virus survives, and spreads faster when the temperatures and humidity are low. A humidifier helps to increase the humidity (amount of moisture) in the air. High humidity helps not only prevent the transmission of the influenza virus, but it also prevents the drying of the nasal passages, reducing the risk for catching the flu.
I have only listed 4 simple things you can do to help prevent the flu this winter, but there are so many other things you can do to stay healthy. The most important thing to remember is that you have some control over your health, and implementing good health practices day by day can go a long way in preventing disease.
Reference: www.cdc.gov