Turn on the news and you will hear how the flu is spreading rapidly. The New Year opened with this horrible flu now spreading into 47 states and killing at least 18 children. As of today 2,257 people have gone to the hospital and Boston, Mass has declared a public health emergency
Here is some advice and information for you to take care of yourself and your family from the flu.
According to Dr.Sanjay Gupta who appeared on Anderson Cooper 360 a few days ago, says the flu has gotten worse then before. Dr. Sanjay Gupta encourages the flu shot and also adds that many people believe they get the flu from the flu shot and this is not true, he went on to say that the flu shot takes up to two weeks to get into to your system give your an immunity to the flu. See a video of that interview here.
Symptoms include, sore throat, headache, body aches and for more information on symptoms please go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Looking to get a flu shot – check out Flu Shot Health Map and find out where in your area the flu vaccine is , how bad the out break in your area may be and more. You can even register for this free site with your facebook account.
A few things you can do in your everyday life to prevent getting the flu:
Try to stay away from anyone with the flu. I could take a few weeks before you will feel the symptoms from having contact with someone with the flu.
Wash your hands often and keep them away from your face. Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and use when ever you come into contact with anyone, in a restaurant, grocery store, at work, etc.
Shopping - Use the handy-wipes near the carts of any store if available or carry a pack on you to wipe down the cart handle before shopping. Always use hand sanitizer after using the check out credit card machine.
Cell Phone – Disinfect your cell phone at least once a week to keep the germs down and more often when we are in flu season like now. Cell phones are warm and a breeding ground for bacteria. Use on of your handy wipes to disinfect. Do not spray anything directly onto your phone or you could risk damaging your phone.
At Work - Wipe down your phone, desk, chair, keyboard, mouse and anything else that you use even if you are the only one.
Drink plenty of water. Not everyone is a fan of water, but it is so good for dehydration. Coffee, tea and soda’s contribute to dehydration.
Stay home from work or school if you are sick, to prevent getting others sick too.
