Flu Season is Here
With all the concerns and discussions around the COVID-19 pandemic it is easy to overlook another major healthcare issue that is approaching. Cold and flu season is on the horizon, and we must be prepared to combat this regular season of sickness as well. In years past, medical professionals and communities would be talking about how to prevent the spread of the common cold and even though the topic is no long major headline news, it still is an issue.
Prevention
Like any other illness, the best approach is to prevent it from spreading and to avoid becoming infected. This is easier said than done, but there are some simple steps we can take to ensure the common cold does not become a problem. The first step is simple and straight forward. Wash your hands often and keep your home and workspace clean. The best approach to stopping any infection or disease from spreading is cleanliness. If someone you work with or live with has the early signs of illness, make sure to spend some time cleaning. This will ensure that the entire office or household does not become infected and will hopefully stop the flu dead in its tracks. The second important way to prevent the spread of the flu is to stay home when you are sick. If you are feeling under the weather, do not go to work and do not put other people at risk. It might be annoying to have to use paid time off but burning a few sick days is far better then getting other people ill. Lastly, if you are concerned wear a mask. Masks prevent the spread of germs and even though they have been politicized sometimes wearing one is the right thing to do.
One other prevention method that is available to almost everyone is the yearly flu shot. Some people strongly believe in getting it regularly while others are drastically opposed to them. The decision to get one is your choice, but if you are unsure about it do some research and ask your doctor. They can advise what is best for you. Everyone’s body is different and all of us will react differently to the yearly flu shot. So, if you are unsure ask the right people for advice and make a quality decision.
Ask a Professional
The next way to help stem the spread of the flu this fall is to be in contact with a medical professional. This can be your doctor, a nurse, or even online through several different virtual platforms. If you have some initial symptoms or concerns do not be afraid to send an email, call the doctor’s office, or schedule a virtual visit with a doctor. Most major insurance companies will have programs that you can partake in, usually free of charge, that gives you access to a professional. Do not be scared to take advantage of them. Your employer and your insurance company would rather pay a small bill for a simple consultation then a large one that can develop because you ignored a problem. A trip to the emergency room or express clinic is always more expensive then contacting a doctor via phone or email. Additionally, avoid self-medicating because it can lead to other issues. If you start taking cold or flu medicine without professional advice you could end up doing more harm, then good. It is important to take the right medicine at the right time and the only way to do this is to ask qualified people what to do.
Simple Home Treatments
If your symptoms are very mild and you think you are on the verge of an illness there are several things you can do to help ward it away. First remember to drink plenty of water and fluids. Drinks like orange juice can also be beneficial if you do not over do it. Furthermore, stay away from dehydrating drinks like coffee and caffeinated sodas. These can dehydrate you and can make your illness worse. Second, remember to get plenty of rest. The human body really is amazing and often spending a day or two in bed relaxing and recovering is all you need to prevent illness. Finally, do not be afraid of some of the classic home remedies like soup. If you do not feel hungry, it is still important to get proper nourishment to fuel your bodies immune system. Soup is a great way to eat light and still get the fuel your body needs to properly fight off any type of illness.
There are countless diseases and illnesses out there and we are all at some sort of risk. Be mindful of your risk factors and those of the people around you. No one is immune to every variant of the flu, and we must be aware that the flu season is on the horizon. If we do the proper things, take care of ourselves and those around us, we will get through it like we do every year. Just remember to be smart and be respectful of those around you. Finally, if you are sick, please do not go out or to work. Resting at home will help prevent its spread and will help you get better sooner than later. Stay safe and stay healthy.