The flu and illness
Influenza or the flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and can even lead to death. In the United States, the peak of flu season can occur anywhere from late December through March, but you can catch the flu throughout the year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms include fever, headache, extreme tiredness, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, dry cough, muscle aches. Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can occur but are more common in children than adults.
Precautions against the flu
You can protect yourself and others from getting sick. Here are some preventative steps you can take:
Get a flu vaccination. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. Some groups of people are very encouraged to get the shot, but the flu shot is not for everyone.
Cover your cough and wash your hands. We hear it all the time, but it bears repeating. These simple steps can protect you and others from catching the flu and other bad bugs. The flu is an airborne virus spread through respiratory droplets. We “catch” it by breathing in coughs and sneezes of people who have the virus, or by touching objects that the droplets have landed on, and then touching our mouth, nose or eyes. So we can stop the spread with a tissue or even a sleeve. Then toss the tissue, and wash your hands, because germs can live there for some time. A good cleansing with warm water and plain soap for 15 to 20 seconds works best. When that option isn’t available, the next best thing is over-the-counter alcohol-based hand gels or wipes. Rub it in until it dries, no water required.
If you catch the flu
If you go to your doctor or walk-in clinic, such as either of Enloe's two Prompt Care Clinics, in the first 48 hours of being sick, you may be able to receive antiviral medications. This can reduce illness by one to two days. Otherwise, it's helpful to rest and sleep, drink fluids, and treat the fever and aches with Tylenol, Advil or Motrin (acetaminophen or ibuprofen). Prompt Care can also see you if you need medical attention for your flu or cold. The Prompt Care Clinics are open 7 days a week. See the Prompt Care web page for times and locations.
