HEALTH TIP #4: FLU SEASON

 

Flu season is almost here. Although no one is immune to the influenza virus certain people are more at risk than others. Those people of higher risk include the elderly, people with other illnesses such as heart disease, lung disease or diabetes, pregnant women and small children. These people are also more prone to develop complications due to the flu.

 

 

Here are a few helpful tips in order to protect yourself and those around you from the influenza virus.

 

·     Get the flu vaccine at least 2 weeks before influenza season (the flu vaccine is      recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older)

·     Wash your hands regularly with soap and running water, especially if you have been    in a public place or around people that have the flu

·     Keeping your hands away from your eyes,  nose and mouth

·     Exercise regularly

·     Get enough sleep

·     Eat healthy

·     Stay away from anyone who has influenza

According to the New Brunswick health department, here is how you can treat the influenza virus if you do happen to get it:

 

“Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Medications for fever and pain, such as Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol®) and Ibuprofen (e.g. Advil®), can be given if necessary, according to the manufacturer’s directions. Most people will recover within a week

Medications for influenza (oseltamivir and zanamivir) can reduce the severity and the duration of illness if taken within two days of the first symptoms. They are available only on prescription from your health-care provider.”

It is also recommended that people with the flu stay home in order to avoid contaminating others.

www.360healthmanagement.com

(Reference: New Brunswick of Health department)