Understanding the Flu and How to Protect Yourself

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can lead to mild to severe illness and even death in some cases, particularly in vulnerable populations like young children, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions. Understanding the flu and how to protect yourself is essential, especially during flu season. This post will cover the basics of the flu, its symptoms, how it spreads, and the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is the Flu?

The flu is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. Unlike the common cold, which develops slowly, the flu usually comes on suddenly and can cause more severe symptoms.

Common Flu Symptoms:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Some people, especially children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.

Flu symptoms typically appear 1-4 days after exposure to the virus and can last for several days to two weeks. In some cases, the flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions.

How the Flu Spreads

The flu spreads mainly through droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get the flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

High-Risk Groups:

• Young children, especially those under 5 years old
• Adults 65 years and older
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

These groups are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications and should take extra precautions during flu season.

Protecting Yourself from the Flu

The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. In addition to vaccination, there are several other strategies to reduce your risk of getting the flu and spreading it to others.

1. Get Vaccinated:

• Annual Flu Shot: The flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most common strains of the virus. Everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated each year, ideally before the flu season begins.
• Vaccine Benefits: The flu vaccine can reduce your risk of getting the flu, lower the severity of illness if you do get sick, and prevent the spread of the virus to others.

2. Practice Good Hygiene:

• Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public places. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid Touching Your Face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands to prevent the flu virus from entering your body.
• Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes: Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands.

3. Stay Home if You’re Sick:

• Limit Contact: If you have flu symptoms, stay home from work, school, and other public places to prevent spreading the virus to others.
• Rest and Recover: Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and follow your healthcare provider’s advice to recover as quickly as possible.

4. Disinfect Surfaces:

• Clean Common Areas: Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls, to reduce the spread of the flu virus.

5. Boost Your Immune System:

• Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support your immune system.
• Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can boost your immune system and help your body fight off infections.
• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to keep your immune system functioning optimally.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, so practice stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you or a loved one develops severe flu symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention, especially if you’re in a high-risk group. Antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the flu if taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention if You Experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Sudden dizziness or confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and worsening cough

GB Family Care: Your Partner in Flu Prevention and Treatment

At GB Family Care, we are dedicated to keeping you and your family healthy during flu season and beyond. We offer flu vaccinations and are here to provide care if you or a loved one becomes ill. Our team is committed to helping you stay informed and protected against the flu.

Schedule your flu shot with GB Family Care today by calling us at (623) 247-5700 or visiting our website to make an appointment online. Let us help you protect yourself and your family from the flu this season.