Flu Season is Coming. Are You Protected?

Flu season is almost upon us and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that manufacturers have already begun shipping flu vaccinations.  The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.  Flu season typically runs October through May.  The 2011-2012 vaccination will include prevention against three strains of the flu viruses:  influenza A (H1N1), another influenza A (H3N2), and influenza B.

Who is at highest risk for contracting the flu?

• Children under the age of 5
• Adults 65 or older
• Pregnant women
• American Indians and Alaskan Natives
• Those with medical conditions such as asthma, chronic lung disease, and weakened immune systems
• People who are morbidly obese (BMI >40)
• Those living in nursing homes or long-term care facilities
• Health care workers

How can you protect yourself?  First and foremost, getting vaccinated against the most common strains of flu is your best defense.  If you are unable (or unwilling) to get a flu shot, there are plenty of other defense methods to protect you this season.  The most obvious (and most common) is hand washing.  Wash your hands often, especially after being in public places such as gyms, grocery stores and sporting events.  If soap and water is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.  Next, cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.  Try not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth...this is how germs easily enter your body!  Avoid being near those who are sick.  Whether or not they have the flu is not important.  If you experience flu-like symptoms then you should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.

Although the flu is caused by a virus and not a bacteria, your doctor can prescribe anti-viral medications.  These will help lessen the symptoms and help speed up recovery; they won't, however, cure the flu.  Antibiotics are not helpful (and not recommended) for the flu.

Be smart this flu season.  Eat an abundant of fruits and vegetables and exercise regularly to help maintain a healthy immune system.  Wash your hands often and carry hand sanitizer with you at all times.  When you are active in the gym, be sure to wipe down your equipment after use.  By all means, if you aren't feeling well, then stay at home, rest and drink plenty of fluids.  For more information, go to www.cdc.gov/flu and learn more about how you can protect yourself and your family.

Take care of yourself this flu season.  Your loved ones will appreciate it and so will the hundreds of people you come in contact with each day!!