How can I Prevent the Flu?

Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu is a contagious illness that spreads through close contact and causes fever, sore throat, dry cough, achy muscles, tiredness, and often vomiting or diarrhea, especially in young children. Though many people with the flu recover with no complication in three to five days, some people experience complications from the flu that can lead to hospitalization and rarely, death. There are a number of ways to prevent the flu, which typically affects people most often in the winter months.

One way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccination. There are two types of flu vaccines; one is an injection referred to as a flu shot and the other is a nasal mist. Both are effective at preventing the flu, but you should talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of the vaccine before you obtain one. Some people with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical issues should not get flu shots.

Regardless of whether or not you obtain a flu vaccination, one of the single most effective way to prevent the flu is through good health habits. Washing your hands after using the restroom, after contact with public surfaces, and before eating is a very effective way to prevent the flu. By washing your hands frequently, you are not only preventing the spread of any germs you may be carrying, but eliminating ones you may have inadvertently picked up. Also avoid close contact with people and do not eat or drink after anyone.

Other health habits that prevent the flu include getting adequate sleep, drinking plenty of fluids, exercising, and eating a healthy diet. Supplementing a healthy diet with a daily multi-vitamin also helps keep a healthy immune system. If you smoke, you should consider quitting, however, be sure to take the proper amount of vitamin C, which can be depleted by smoking. If you have dietary concerns, talk to your doctor of nutritionist about immune-building supplements.

Even with these efforts, it may not be possible to prevent the flu every season. If you do come down with the flu, stay home until you recover to avoid spreading the illness to others. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and get plenty of rest. You can control fever with over the counter medication taken as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Most people are able to recover from the flu within three to five days, though it may take seven to ten days to feel completely normal again. Complications such as pneumonia, sinus infection, ear infection, and dehydration can occur and require medical treatment. If your symptoms worsen, change, or do not improve or you become dehydrated, cannot control your fever, or experience difficulty breathing, you should see a doctor.