Survival Guide to the Worst Flu Season Yet

Amy Taylor December 17, 2012

In some of the world’s coldest regions, the flu season has begun stopping people from going to school and work. In the United States, the flu season has arrived a month earlier this year (the earliest start for a decade), and the number of people testing positive for influenza is rising substantially. In United Kingdom, flu season has started this October, but overall GP consultation rates remains low.

Even though the flu season is inevitable, you can definitely do something to protect yourself from this debilitating illness. Share these tips to your family, friends, and everyone else you know so they stay protected too!

1. Consider getting a flu jab. The effectiveness of seasonal flu vaccines last for a year. Getting one will significantly lower your risk of acquiring this contagious illness for the entire flu season! Call your nearest health centre to book an appointment.

2. Once ill, avoid going out. If you notice symptoms of flu such as sneezing and coughing, sore throat, headache, dizziness, and high body temperature, do everyone else a favour – stay at home. You really don’t want to be spreading the virus to your neighbours, workmates, co-students, and colleagues.

3. Avoid close contact. Delay the hugging and kissing for just a couple of days if your hubby or child has flu. Flu viruses are easily passed from one person to another by close contact. When you’re in public places, avoid crowded people. Make sure you have tissue to cover your mouth and nose when someone sneezes or cough.

4. Keep your hands off your face! Unless you’re washing your hand every minute, avoid touching your face. Viruses, germs and bacteria that cause flu are usually found in doorknobs, mobile phones, handrails, and other surfaces. Make it a habit to thoroughly wash your hands (at least for 20 seconds) every now and then using an antibacterial soap. Don’t forget to bring a hand sanitizer or alcohol wherever you go.

5. Take vitamin C. A daily intake of vitamin C helps you keep away from flu and other illnesses. Make sure you have plenty of fruits and veggies in your fridge.

6. Fuel your immune system with water. Whether you are already having flu, or trying to prevent it, drink lots of water. Water keeps you hydrated (which is essential in keeping your energy levels high), and washes away the free radicals from your system.

7. Get plenty of sleep. Rest is vital to a healthy, strong immune system. Lack of sleep can compromise your immune system and weaken its ability to ward off flu, colds and other viral diseases. Make sure you observe 7-8 hours of shut-eye every night.

8. Chill out. As mentioned, you need rest to keep your immune system at its peak. Stressors are everywhere and you can’t completely avoid them. However, you can manage your stress levels. Get a massage, try acupuncture and yoga, or learn how to meditate. These are superb stress relievers!

9. Consider herbal treatments. There are herbs that have flu-fighting properties. But before you pick one, conduct a thorough research or consult a health practitioner for guidance.

10. Exercise. If you want to substantially strengthen your immune system, make exercising a regular habit!

Take note – flu is something that all of us get once in a while. There is no 100% assurance that you could prevent it. But if you want to reduce the possibility of getting this illness, try these tips!

Dear Readers,

What therapies or methods are great at relieving flu?

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