Flu season is not over, even though the weather is warming up. Hospitals have had a busy stretch, with flu patients filling up many rooms. So, what’s the best way to deal with this persistent illness that has yet to take its seasonal break?
The first step is to take it seriously. Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs, otherwise known as the respiratory system. The flu causes many deaths – not just sickness – each year.
This illness can cause:
- Fever of 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
- Severe body aches and pains
- Exhaustion
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Congestion and runny nose
The virus is known to be spread mainly by tiny droplets left behind by those infected with the flu. These droplets travel through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These tiny drops can land in the mouths and noses of others or be inhaled by those nearby.
Tips to help prevent the flu
Annual flu vaccination
Research studies have shown that vaccinations reduce the chances of contracting the flu. In addition, vaccinations also help to decrease the severity of disease and reduce flu-related complications that can lead to mortality.
SSM Health Family Nurse Practitioner, Kathy Norman, NP, adds, “Anyone 6 months and over should receive a flu vaccine yearly to help reduce the risk of getting the influenza infection. Especially those who are high risk such as infants, the elderly, and those with conditions such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer.”
Practice proper hygiene
Regularly washing your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers is vital in minimizing transmission. When coughing or sneezing, be sure to cover your mouth and nose. Wearing a mask while unwell is also a good practice to protect those around you.
“Carry sanitizing wipes if you are out in public or using the provided sanitizer wipes at grocery stores to clean shopping cart handles can reduce exposure,” Norman said. “Scratching your nose or biting your nails are usually unconscious acts but it’s important not to touch your face while in public.”
Minimize the spread
If you are already experiencing flu symptoms, it’s essential to take extra measures to prevent spreading the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying at home for at least 24 hours after symptoms improve and the fever has subsided without the need for fever-reducing medications.1
Most people who get mild cases of the flu will recover in about seven days. However, recovery time will vary depending on the severity of each case. In more serious cases, the flu can lead to further medical complications.
“Pneumonia is the most common complication of influenza,” Norman said. Other complications, she added, can include:
- Cardiac complications like myocardial infarction (inflammation of the heart).
- Respiratory distress including hypoxia (oxygen deprivation to body tissue).
- Central nervous system complications like stroke and seizures.
- Sepsis infection, which can lead to multi-system organ failure.
“Influenza in most cases is managed with outpatient care but can be very serious if symptoms are not managed,” Norman said.
If you suspect you or a loved one has the flu, find a primary care physician or head to SSM Health Urgent Care or Express Clinics.
1. Preventing spread of respiratory viruses when you’re sick. (2024, March 1). Respiratory Illnesses. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/precautions-when-sick)
