Dameron Hospital | Health Outlook | Fall 2019

dameronhospital.org 11 FALL is here—and with it comes the cold and flu season. Cold and flu spread more quickly in the fall and winter months because the viruses thrive in colder, less humid environments. Apart from being a nuisance, the flu (also called influenza) can be severe and sometimes life-threatening. Do you know how to recognize the flu and what to do about it? Symptoms and prevention Typically flu symptoms start one to four days after the virus enters the body. That means that you may be able to pass on Flu season is coming: Are you ready? the virus to someone else even before you realize that you are sick. The flu can lead to dangerous complications such as pneumonia or dehydration. Symptoms may include: ▸ ▸ A dry cough. ▸ ▸ A headache. ▸ ▸ A sore throat. ▸ ▸ Fever or feeling feverish/chills. ▸ ▸ Stuffy or runny nose (nasal congestion). ▸ ▸ Muscle or body aches. ▸ ▸ Fatigue (tiredness). ▸ ▸ Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults). Medical studies show that a preventive flu vaccination reduces the chance of infection and lessens the severity of symptoms. Getting a flu shot before the peak flu season—between November and February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)—is best, but it’s never too late to vaccinate. The vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older, including pregnant women. Avoid spreading the flu Here are some basic tips to keep in mind: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others. Stay home, if possible. Don’t go to work or school or run errands when you are sick. Stay home until you are fever- free for a minimum of 24 hours. Keep in mind that painkillers can mask a fever. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands often. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol- based hand rub. Practice other healthy habits. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. FACT 1: Everyone is at risk. People 65 and older are most at risk for complications from the flu, but healthy children and adults can also get the virus. Know the facts about the flu! The best way to avoid the flu? Get vaccinated FACT 2: The flu can turn serious. Getting it could lead to complications and hospitalization—even death, in some cases. FACT 3: You need a flu shot every year. The flu virus is continually changing, and every year the flu vaccine is adapted to fit new strains of the virus. FACT 4: You protect others by protecting yourself. You can avoid spreading the flu to people who might be more severely affected by it. Children under 6 months can’t be vaccinated, so anyone caring for a baby, including pregnant women, should get the vaccine. DO YOUR PART Everyone can play a part to prevent the spread of the flu! For more information, contact your health care provider or local pharmacy.