Yes, it's flu season again. That feel bad all over, fever, vomiting and diarrhea thing is back again. Texas in particular is already experiencing an epidemic. But don't worry, even if you don't live in Texas , the flu is coming soon to a neighborhood near you.
Two things are a must:
1 . Get the flu shot;
2. Try not to get exposed.
Getting the flu shot can really minimize your symptoms if you do eventually come down with the flu. Many hospitals offer flu shots to the community at minimal expense as a public service, so, even if you haven't got a personal physician, there's good chance that you still have access to the flu vaccine. Call your local hospital. It takes from 4 to 8 weeks for your body's immune system to build up a good response to the flu vaccine, so it really makes sense to get the shots in October or November. It probably never too late, however, since no one can predict how long flu season will last or how fast any particular individual's immune system will respond to the vaccine.
The best approach to flu is to NOT get it in the first place. Flu is transmitted through the air by coughing, and by hand to mouth contact, epecially after using the bathroom. People shed the virus when they urinate or defecate. To avoid these means of transmission, first you must be picky about those people to whom you expose yourself. Avoid crowded places, especially public transportation, if possible where you can get coughed on by inconsiderate people. Don't share glasses, silverware or towels. Don't kiss or hug someone who already has symptoms. Make sure everyone in your family, especially your kids, copiously wash their hands everytime they go to the bathroom (either #1 or #2) and use their own towel. Avoid public bathrooms if possible. You would be surprised how many people don't wash their hands after using the bathroom. Commode handles really are a great source for transmitting viruses, including flu viruses, so you must wash your hands thoroughly after touching one. Try not to touch a public bathroom door latch with your hands after you've cleaned them. Use your elbows if possible.
If you have a job that exposes you to the public, eventually you're going to get the flu. Now what do you do? Well, for openers, if you're sure you've been exposed, you can start taking medicine even before you develop symptoms. Tamiflu can be taken prophylactly for seven days if started within 2 days of exposure. It can also be taken prophylactly for up to 6 weeks during a community outbreak. It can also be if started within 2 days of the onset of symptoms. An alternative is Relenza which can also be taken if started within 2 days of symptom onset. Tamiflu is taken orally (pills or suspension) and Relenza is inhaled. Both have similar mechanisms of action and similar results --- they decrease time to improvement by about a day and a half. While you're waiting for the anti-flu medicines to kick in, treat the symptoms: Ibuprofen and acetaminophen for the aches and pains and fever. Decongestants for the congestion. Lots and lucks of fluids for the vomiting and diarrhea. Try to drink enough so that you're urinating at least 4-6 times a day, and the color of your urine is clear or light yellow, but not bright yellow or dark yellow (you're getting dehydrated). If you can't keep solid foods down, then put yourself on clear liquids for 24 hours: Gatorade, koolaide , tea, Sprite or 7-Up (try to get some of the carbonation out--it'll upset your stomach also), and, yes, broth from chicken soup. Water is okay, but not water only---it has no nutrients in it. It's best to mix it up: take a little of this one time, and a little of that the next time. Start with small quantities and increase gradually. You may have to start with just a few sips or gulps, then wait 5 minutes and do it again. If you can't even keep clear liquids down, it's time to go see your doctor or go to the ER. This is especially true of the very young and very old. Stay in bed and rest as much as possible, and try not to spread it around to the rest of your family and friends. “Semi” isolate yourself: have your own towel, your own drinking glass and silverware, even your own toilet if possible, and don't let anyone else use them. Don't be hugging and kissing on your friends and family---save that for your enemies.
The vast majority of fatalities of flu virus occur in the very young and very old, so be especially vigilant for them, and have a low threshold for bringing them in to their doctor, or following up with their doctor if not improving. Good luck and here's hoping you stay healthy and happy.
Flu Shot Locations
- Find Flu Shot
A flu shot can be obtained online from
http://www.drugdelivery.ca/
- access to several fully licensed pharmacies world wide with discount prescription drug prices to American's and customers all over the world.
