When rainy season starts, flu season comes in. Influenza or flu is one of the most common illnesses during the wet season. This viral respiratory infection transmits by droplets when coughing or sneezing. Characterized by fever, coughing, sneezing, sore throat and body aches, flu will take you to bed for days, if left untreated.
People who are down with flu may be able to infect others even before symptoms develop and up to 5-7 days after becoming sick. You may be able to spread this disease to someone else before you know you are ill as well as while you are experiencing it.
Yes, prevention is better than cure. Preventive measures may slow down the spread of virus that causes respiratory illness like flu.
In order to keep us free from flu, follow these preventive tips:
- Wash your hands frequently. Virus spreads flu. To get rid of it, washing your hands often is the key. Soap combined with scrubbing helps dislodge germs. Hum a happy birthday song when washing your hands. As soon as you finish the song, rinse them well and dry it using a clean towel.
- Always bring alcohol with you when you go out. Using alcohol or similar disinfectant can help you keep that flu at bay.
- Sleep matters. Getting 8 hours of slumber daily will not only reduce stress but also revitalize your immune system response.
- Take your ABC and E’s regularly. Get regular dose of vitamins A, B, C and E as well as other antioxidants to enhance your immune system response. Pop these vitamin tablets to strengthen your resistance. You can also get these vitamins by eating fruits and vegetables.
- Get flu vaccination. It is the single, best way to prevent flu. Consult your doctor for these vaccinations.
- Cut out and cut down. Stop smoking as this bad habit paralyzes cilia, hair-like cells in your nose that shield viruses from coming before it harms your system. Cut down on alcohol drinking as it impairs your immune system.
In case that this contagious disease inflicts you or any other members of the family, follow these steps to stop the flu from spreading.
- Avoid close contact. If there is a family member down with flu, keep your distance to protect yourself from getting sick. Do not share your personal items to avert spreading the virus.
- Stay home if you are sick. Do not go to work or school if you have already the symptoms of flu. This will prevent other from catching the illness. Get enough rest and drink lots of fluid to recover from flu.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Constant touching of your eyes, nose or mouth can transfer the virus from your hands, thereby spreading the germs, making you at risk of flu. Stop the bad habit so as not to spread further virus.
- Use tissue when sneezing. Using handkerchief can increase the risk of infection when used repeatedly throughout the day. Instead, use tissue to cover your mouth and nose when, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. This may prevent those around you from getting sick.
- When at work, clean frequently touched objects and surfaces such as doorknobs, keyboard, mouse, office table and telephone to get rid of germs. These objects can be a source of spreading the virus.
- Ensure that you have adequate supply of tissue, hand soap, alcohol or hand sanitizer and disposable wipes at work.
- Keep an eye on your utensils, plates, glasses, cups or anything else that you touch with your mouth. During flu season or if one of the members of the family is sick with flu, avoid sharing the same utensils. Provide separate utensils, plates and glasses for them while they are recovering from the illness. Wash used dishes and utensils in the dishwasher or in the sink with hot water and soap.
- Take your medicines as prescribed by physician. Follow doctor’s orders in taking anti-flu medications.
