Flu prevention 101

The cough and sore throat. The body aches and chills. The fever and fatigue.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to prevent the flu is to get an annual flu vaccine.

“Some providers are running low on the vaccine, so it’s best to call ahead,” said Cherie L. Holodnick RN, the flu coordinator at U-M Occupational Health Service.

While there is a lull in activity at the moment, health care providers caution that an uptick in flu symptoms could happen.

Help stay healthy by adopting these healthy habits:

• Always cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough.
• Use tissues to blow your nose, and then throw them away. Wash your hands immediately.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—about the time it takes to sing “The Victors”—and dry your hands thoroughly.
• Take care of your health by eating a balanced diet, getting regular physical activity, getting plenty of sleep and managing your stress. These activities may help boost your immune system and reduce your chances of getting sick.

If you have the flu:

The CDC recommends self-isolation until 24 hours after you are free of fever. Typically, that will be three-five days. Staying home will keep you from getting others sick and will speed your recovery.

Flu treatments won’t cure the flu, but there are medications and home remedies you can take to relieve common flu symptoms such as fever, aches, fatigue and congestion:

• An appropriate over-the-counter pain reliever may be helpful.
• Multi-symptom cough medicines or those with an expectorant may help with a nagging cough and chest congestions.
• Decongestants may help with nasal congestions, or try a Neti pot for nasal saline irrigation.
• Drink lots of liquids for a sore throat and gargle with salt water. If your sore throat persists, see your doctor.
• Keep sugar-free hard candy and cough drops nearby to calm an irritated throat. A teaspoon of honey can help too.

Information provided by MHealthy. More information available on the MHealthy website.