We’ve been hearing a lot about scary infectious diseases in the media lately. In reality, we all need to be far more concerned about a common condition that we face every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that infects the nose, throat and lungs. Most people only experience mild to moderate symptoms, but the flu can also lead to more serious illness and even death.
Flu Signs and Symptoms
It can be difficult to distinguish between the flu and other types of common illnesses. The flu is caused only by the influenza virus, with symptoms including fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, fatigue, and in some cases vomiting and diarrhea.
You can get the flu by being exposed to droplets that are made when someone who has the flu coughs, sneezes or talks. When these droplets land in the mouths or noses of others, the flu spreads. You can also get the flu by touching a surface that has the flu virus on it, then touching your own mouth, eyes or nose.
Flu Prevention
Unfortunately, the flu is quite contagious, but you can protect yourself. The best way to prevent getting the flu is to get a flu shot every year. If you would like to book a flu shot for yourself or your family, then get in touch with a medical professional. The CDC also suggest that you follow these tips for flu prevention:
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose during flu season.
- Wash your hands often, and especially before you must touch your eyes, mouth or nose.
- If you have the flu and you cough or sneeze, carefully cover your mouth and nose.
- If you get the flu, avoid close contact with others.
- If you know someone who has the flu, avoid close contact with that person.
- If you have the flu, stay home from work, school and other public places.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with the flu virus and other germs.
During flu season and all year long, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a great way to keep your immune system strong and avoid catching the flu. Strive to get plenty of rest, eat well, don’t smoke, and eat a healthy, balanced diet. If you get sick, steer clear of others until you are well to avoid spreading the flu or other common but contagious conditions. This is also a good time to review your health insurance. Contact us and make sure you have the right coverage to meet your needs if you unfortunately get sick this flu season.
What steps do you take to stay healthy during flu season? Have you had your flu shot yet?