How to Prepare for Flu Season
Thousands of New York health care workers have been urged to get vaccinated for the flu virus in preparation for a swine flu spike, reports the Associated Press.
However, many health care workers have shunned the vaccine due to skepticism and safety concerns. Some even fear getting Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare paralysis that occurred during a swine flu vaccine effort in 1976.
According to the recent report, over 550 U.S. deaths have been attributed to the new H1N1 swine flu and an estimated 36,000 Americans die from regular influenza each year.
So, if you are barely knocking the sand out of your shoes from summer--you better think about flu season--because it typically starts in the early fall and continues well into the winter months. Influenza infection is not just a "bad cold." Influenza is an ever-changing virus that infects millions of Americans each year (see Resources below). Whether you are for getting the vaccine or if you have your reservations, here are some steps to help you prepare for Flu season.
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Things You'll Need
- Knowing when your local supply of flu vaccine will be available
- A review of the signs and symptoms of the flu
- Hand gel
- A teaching and game plan for you and your loved ones
Instructions
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Put getting vaccinated at the top of your to-do list to protect yourself and get it out of the way. The flu vaccine is developed annually to cover the anticipated strains that may infect the country. It is never 100 percent foolproof (no vaccine is!). However, it should be available in the fall from your health care provider, local clinic or health department.
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Review the signs and symptoms of influenza as opposed to the "common cold." An easy way to remember flu symptoms is the FACTS acronym: Fever, Aches, Chills, Tiredness, Sudden Symptoms.
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Review proper hand-washing technique, with your family as well (see Resources below). Simple, but correct hand washing saves countless lives daily. Keep a supply of sanitizing gel around, but nothing beats good old soap and water.
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Have the usual home remedy supplies on hand such as medication to reduce fever and pain, rehydrating fluids and tissues. It is also not a bad idea if you're a parent to hide away a special book or game in case your child develops the flu. It will keep them quiet and be a nice treat when they are sick.
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Keep up with your local health news. Each section of the country is typically hit differently than others. Find out what is going around your local area.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember, influenza is not the same as a cold. Flu kills.
Find out when your local supply of flu vaccine is available and get inoculated.
This article is strictly for informational purposes. Only a licensed healthcare provider can diagnose and treat any medical condition.
