Fending Off the Flu

We've all heard or said the phrase, "I can't afford to get sick right now." Unfortunately, December and February are peak flu months. Here's how your family can avoid it.

Get vaccinated. According to the CDC, flu vaccination reduces hospital ICU admission risk by 26% and death by 31%. Prevention is crucial for at-risk patients such as children, those over 65 and pregnant people. People six months or older should be vaccinated annually, though there are some exceptions. A nasal spray vaccine is also available for those 2 to 49, but you should discuss vaccination methods with your doctor.

Avoid touching your face. Studies have shown people touch their faces over a dozen times per hour. When you touch a contaminated surface, especially objects like a door handle or gas pump that many other people have used, bacteria and viruses can be transferred to your hands. If you then rub your eyes or nose or touch your mouth, that is a common way for illnesses like the flu to enter your system.

Disinfect surfaces. Use an EPA-approved product that kills viruses and bacteria like Lysol or Clorox. Be sure to clean commonly touched items in the office or household, such as phone buttons and receivers, keyboards, door handles, faucets, cabinets, refrigerators and desktops or countertops.

Wash your hands. Use an antibacterial soap to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. If you do not have access to soap or water, opt for a hand sanitizer made of at least 60% alcohol.

Stop the spread. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze to reduce the spread of the virus. If you are sick, stay away from work or other public places for at least 24 hours or until after your fever breaks. Take any antiviral medications prescribed by your healthcare provider.

If you experience any of the following once you have the flu, please seek emergency help as soon as possible:

Adults

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness, confusion, inability to wake up
• Severe vomiting, muscle pain or unsteadiness
• Seizures
• Dehydration
• Fever or cough that improves but then worsens

Children

• Skin or lips that take on a bluish tint
• Trouble breathing
• Dehydration (e.g., dry diaper for 8 hours)
• Fever Above 104°F or any fever if less than 12 weeks old
• Not eating or drinking
• Fever with rash
• Flu-like symptoms that appear to get better before returning with a fever and cough
• Chest pain
• Severe muscle pain
• Not interacting when awake
• Seizures

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