Effective flu fighting tips

It used to be that the beginning of winter was the start of flu season, however, it seems that these days many people have colds all year round. To avoid getting sick, there are several things you can do to protect yourself, as well as those around you.

It’s true that getting vaccinated each year can help prevent you from getting sick. Every person over the age of 6 months should get vaccinated.

Since these viral strains change with each season, it is important to get the new vaccines as they are offered. The vaccine you got last year will not protect you from the virus going around this year.

Avoiding getting vaccinated means you could get sick and be ill for several days. For those with existing health problems, serious complications such as pneumonia can arise. This is especially true for those who are pregnant, very young, or elderly.

It is important to note that people do not get the flu from getting the flu vaccine.

If your doctor prescribes antiviral drugs, take them. Antiviral drugs are not over-the-counter medications, and are not the same as antibiotics. Antiviral medications are meant to avoid flu complications and help shorten the duration of your sickness.

It does not take a lot of effort to spread the flu. To prevent infection or spreading of germs, always cover your mouth when you cough. When possible, use a tissue when you cough or sneeze to trap germs, and be sure to dispose of the tissue in the garbage instead of hanging on to it.

If your doctor recommends that you stay home, you should. Just having that cold or flu feeling, means you are most likely carrying germs that can easily spread, and make others around you sick. This includes your children, other adults in your home, your co-workers, and strangers in public places.

You can also help with everyday precautions such as washing your hands with soap and water after coughing or blowing your nose. This will help stop the spread of germs. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand cleanser will also work.

Avoid coming into contact with people you know to be sick. If you are in contact with sick people, avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes to lessen the spread of germs.

You can boost your system with natural vitamins, not supplements. Eating more yellow, red, and green fruits and vegetables will help increase your phytochemicals, shortening the length of your illness.

Avoid alcohol and smoking when you are sick. Smoking decreases the efficiency of the immune system while alcohol suppresses it. Alcohol consumption also dehydrates the body, which can make your illness more intense.