Not only is the news full of the high number of flu cases, so are doctor offices. It is important to take precautions to keep your immune system at its best to decrease your chance of getting sick this season.
Therefore, here is some information that will give you a head start on decreasing your chance of getting the flu as well as preventing the spread of the flu for you and your family.
Is it the flu or is it a cold? The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The common cold is also caused by a virus and is also contagious. Although symptoms are somewhat similar between the two, the flu has much more severe symptoms, generally lasts longer and can lead to complications such as pneumonia.
What are the signs and symptoms of the flu? Symptoms of the flu include a high fever (generally over 101 degrees), severe body aches, extreme tiredness, and a dry cough. Cold symptoms include mild fever (generally 100 degrees or less), some mild body aches, a runny nose and loose cough. If you suspect you have the flu instead of a cold it is important to see your health care provider who can perform a test to determine if you have the flu.
How can you protect yourself and your family from the flu? One of the best preventions is to take the flu vaccine. According to the Kentucky Department of Health, there is an ample supply of the vaccine this year. Other protection and prevention measures you can take to keep your family healthy this flu season include getting an adequate amount of sleep, eat a healthy diet, participate in physical activity (at least 30 minutes every day), try to reduce stress in your life, use good hand-washing techniques, cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, avoid close contact with those that may have the flu and stay home from work or school if you have the flu.
For more information on health tips for the family, contact the Clark County Extension Office at 744-4682.
Jennifer Howard is the Clark County Extension Service agent for family and consumer sciences.
