Fall has arrived! One often begins to prepare for the season by obtaining the essentials such as a buying a new winter coat, school supplies, or shopping for holiday decor. However, what’s most important to prepare for, but often overlooked, is the flu virus. Seasonal influenza (flu) is a common viral infection that can be deadly in some cases. It spreads from one person to another and it begins around fall and ends around springtime. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 5-20 percent of people in the United States gets the flu yearly and in rare cases it can account for about 10,000 to 50,000 deaths every year. It is important to be educated about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of the flu to better prepare yourself to avoid getting sick.
The flu virus can often be confused with the common cold or other general illnesses. A good way to distinguish the flu from other conditions is by recognizing the symptoms. People who have the flu often experience these symptoms: fever, body ache, runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, fatigue, and sometimes diarrhea. Antiviral drugs, bedrest and drinking fluids are all ways to help treat the flu. It is important to take precautions and know how to avoid getting sick w
ith the flu.
Taking small actions throughout the day such as washing your hands, using sanitizer can help prevent getting the flu. Another method to help prevent the flu is by getting the flu shot. The flu shot lessens the likelihood of one getting sick of the flu by 60 percent and is administered yearly. A common myth is that the flu shot can cause a person to become more prone to getting sick because the virus is injected in to our system. The truth is that flu viruses used in flu shots are inactivated so they cannot cause an infection.
It is important for one to be aware of the flu virus to avoid getting sick. With simple changes such as sanitizing regularly, getting the flu shot, and early detection, you will reduce your likelihood of getting sick and spreading it to others.
The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. Marque Medical is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.