‘Tis the season for stuffy heads, sneezing and generally feeling awful. Flu season is already on us and we all need to stay safe and healthy so that we can prevent the continuous spread of this awful bug.
Though many of us attribute anything from stomach illnesses to colds to the flu, the flu or influenza is actually a potentially deadly member of a virus family. Recently, the H1N1 flu epidemic not only caused many deaths but headlines across the world. The H1N1 is a strain of influenza and is no longer a major health threat.
Here’s everything that you’ll need to know about staying healthy during this flu season.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
· Fever, shivers and/or the “chills”
· Body aches and/or fatigue
· Headache
· Cough and/or chest congestion
· Nasal congestion
If you develop these symptoms, stay home from work and limit contact with others. If your symptoms become worse, seek medical attention because a flu that’s left untreated may lead to pneumonia, bronchitis or other medical conditions.
What do I need to know about the flu shot?
The first line of defense against catching and spreading the flu is to get an annual flu shot. However, for veterans who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs, getting a flu shot isn’t usually an option because it may trigger an allergic reaction. If you have a mild or moderate egg allergy, check with your healthcare provider.
The shot doesn’t prevent the flu totally but helps your body produce antibodies that helps you fight off the infection if you’re exposed. Further, the shot doesn’t give you the flu because the shots don’t contain active or “alive” flu cells.
Since the flu mutates regularly, healthcare providers recommend an annual flu shot.
How can my family and I stay healthy this flu season?
· Schedule a flu shot
· Regularly disinfectant doorknobs, common surfaces and bathrooms
· Drink plenty of fluids and maintain a healthy, balanced diet
· Keep your body’s immunity healthy by reducing stress and getting adequate sleep
· Keep tissues and hand sanitizer handy
· Don’t share makeup applicators, toothbrushes or utensils
· Wash or sanitize your hands regularly, especially after shaking hands and using the bathroom
· Always cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing
· Avoid touching your mouth, nose, eyes and ears
For more information on flu prevention, check with the Centers for Disease Control.
What does the VA offer veterans?
Check with your local VA health office to see whether they provide flu shots. Some are offering veterans flu shots free of charge. Unfortunately, veterans’ dependents and spouses aren’t eligible to receive flu shots from the VA.
To find a nearest healthcare facility that does provide flu shots, check here. Also, many neighborhood and chain pharmacies offer flu shots by appointment or as a walk-in, and many don’t require health insurance, though its recommended to check to see what’s covered and not.
