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WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE FLU!
Flu Season is upon us! Hopefully, you are planning to get your flu shots. Flu shots are
administered between the beginning of October until the middle to end of November. But
what if you get the flu? Here are some self-care tips for you and your family.
1) Symptoms – Contrary to popular belief, the flu we vaccinate against is not
accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms include fever, body aches or joint pain,
chills, cough, and congestion.
2) Ways to avoid getting the flu:
1. WASH YOUR HANDS! – One of the single most effective means of avoiding the flu and
preventing the transmission of germs is by washing your hands often. Use soap and hot
water.
2. COVER YOUR MOUTH WHEN YOU COUGH OR SNEEZE – Viruses are spread by droplets which
enter the air when we cough or sneeze. Use tissues or your hands to cover your mouth and
nose to prevent the droplets from entering the air. Remember to dispose of the tissue
properly and wash your hands.
2) Treating the flu – The flu is not cured by antibiotics. The flu is a virus, and
viruses
do not respond to antibiotics. There are medications now available to treat the flu, and
these can be obtained by a prescription from your healthcare provider. If you think you
have the flu, make an appointment to see your healthcare provider as soon as you can.
These medications help you to feel better, but you may still have symptoms of the flu.
Viruses must run their course, which is usually 72 hours before improvement is felt or
seen. The following are ways to treat the symptoms of flu:
1. Get plenty of rest.
2. Drink plenty of clear liquids. Water is best. Avoid caffeine as it is a diuretic and
will cause you to become dehydrated.
3. For fever, aches, and chills, take Tylenol every 4 hours as needed or Ibuprofen every 6
to 8 hours. Adults can take up to 1000mg of Tylenol, and children should be dosed
according to package directions. You should consult a physician or nurse for proper
dosages for a child under two years of age. Adults can take up to 800mg of Ibuprofen, and
children, again, should be dosed according to directions or physician's orders. Ibuprofen
it not recommended for children under 6 months of age.
4. If your symptoms do not improve within 72 hours, call your health care provider.
We hope this information will help you and your family stay healthy this year.
Remember… prevention is the best medicine! Get those flu shots, and wash those hands!
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