It’s flu season! Yes, we know the word season can be misleading since many of us experience the onset of flu like symptoms during other times of the year. But September to March are the months that bring the greatest number of cases nationwide.
With this season around the corner, it’s time to ensure you’re prepared and protected against this common illness. Whether you’re worried about your health or that of your loved ones. This article will give you all the information you need to get ready for flu season and stay healthy.
How long does the flu last?
Flu season is typically from October-May but can vary depending on the geographic location. The flu can last from a few days to a couple of weeks. Signs and symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, and fatigue.
It is important to stay hydrated with fluids such as water or soup broth. Adults should also take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to reduce fever and relieve muscle pain and stiffness. Children under six months old should not take ibuprofen. Instead, they should be given paracetamol syrup or liquid (no more than 5ml every 4 hours).
How contagious is the flu?
The influenza virus causes flu. It is spread by droplets that are released when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of nearby people. The flu can also be pass on if someone touches a surface or object with droplets and then touches their own mouth or nose.
People can also get infected from touching surfaces or objects contaminated with droplets and then putting their fingers in their mouths and eyes, which is more likely to happen to children who don’t wash their hands often.
What are the common symptoms of the flu?
The most common symptom is fever. Other symptoms are chills, aches, headache, cough, and congestion then take help from online pharmacy in Pakistan. These symptoms can last up to a week and sometimes lead to complications like pneumonia or bronchitis. The best way to avoid getting the flu is to get vaccinate before the season starts in October.
Should you get vaccinated?
1. Drink lots of fluids – it’s important to stay hydrated during this season and help your body flush out toxins. Keep water bottles on hand, drink tea, and ensure you drink enough H2O.
2. Wash your hands often – one of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of germs is by washing your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds (singing Happy Birthday twice), especially after using the bathroom or handling dirty items.
3. Avoid close contact with sick people – it’s easier to catch a cold from someone who is sneezing or coughing than from someone who doesn’t appear sick, so try to avoid being around people with symptoms if possible.
Natural ways to prevent infection
The flu can be a very serious illness that leads to hospitalization or even death. It’s important to take precautions like getting your flu shot and washing your hands. But there are also some natural ways to help prevent the flu. Here are four of them:
1) Stay home if you’re sick.
2) Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
3) Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes with unwashed hands.
4) Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after changing diapers, using the toilet, eating food, and coming into contact with someone ill.
Plan for sick days
You may need some days off. Even if you don’t get sick, you may need to take care of your sick kids. Start thinking about it now: What’s your official policy for sick days? Will you have to take unpaid days off?
Tips for Preventing Flu
Avoid sick people: If you’re less than three feet away from someone coughing or sneezing, you can get infected.
Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently, using the following proper technique. Use warm water and antibacterial soap. Lather for 20 seconds, paying particular attention to your fingers, fingernails, and jewelry; this is the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice. Rinse your hands well and dry them.
Don’t touch your face: Touching your face with infected hands quickly spreads viruses, so avoid touching your face without washing your hands first.
Rest: Whether you’re trying to recover from a cold or flu or trying to avoid it, get plenty of sleep. Get your kids to bed on time, too.
