Flu Advice

NOT TOO LATE TO INOCULATE

This year's flu season started out slow, but is now in full swing with widespread cases reported across the country. And it is far worse than expected...why? It appears that the scientists who try and predict the strains of the Flu that will be most damaging, failed to correctly predict the current version of the Flu that is wreaking havoc in homes and offices around the country. Most of the time, the scientists get it right, but this year's incorrect mixture is the reason that you or someone you know has been ill. Most cases aren't serious, but complications from the flu still claim around 36,000 lives each year in the US alone--and ten times that number worldwide.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

Normally, the simple answer is: get a flu shot. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting that there is still plenty of flu vaccine available...and getting vaccinated now can still better protect you. But, as mentioned, this year's flu shot won't completely protect you because this year's flu vaccine is not a good match for two of the main strains going around. Experts still say it's still worth getting because it fully protects against half of the circulating flu viruses--and provides some level of protection against the rest.

If You Get the Flu, What Should You Do?

The flu is caused by a virus, so antibiotics and penicillin won't help cure it. The best advice is:

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of liquids
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco
• Take over-the-counter medicine to help relieve the symptoms
• Don't operate heavy machinery

Is Medical Attention Ever Necessary?

If you are 65 years or older, have a chronic medical condition, or are pregnant, you should consult a doctor as soon as you begin to feel the flu symptoms. People that fit these descriptions are considered special risk patients, in which case your doctor may choose to use specific antiviral drugs to help treat the flu. For everyone else, medical attention isn't usually necessary unless you see the following emergency warning signs:

• High or prolonged fever
• Difficult or irregular breathing
• Near-fainting or fainting
• Pain or pressure in the chest
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Bluish skin tone
• Confusion or extreme irritability
• Flu symptoms improve only to return with a worse fever or cough

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible, either by calling your doctor or going to the emergency room.

Stop the Spread!

As a courtesy to others and to prevent spreading the flu, you should stay home from work, school, and even errands when you're sick. And remember... always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.