14 Methods to Safeguard Your Health Throughout the Flu Season

Flu season annually emerges during the cooler late fall weather and can persist until April of the following year. It typically peaks between January and February, impacting people nationwide. Medically referred to as influenza, there are actually four primary types of the flu virus.

Knowledge is indeed power, especially when flu symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and in some cases, become life-threatening. It's crucial for everyone to understand how to safeguard themselves against infection.

THE PRIMARY TYPES OF INFLUENZA

Are you aware of the different types of influenza you might encounter during flu and cold season? Some types are more prevalent than others, and you may not be familiar with all of them.

• INFLUENZA A

The most prevalent flu virus is Influenza A, which astonishingly affects both animals and humans. It often leads to the most intense symptoms. Due to its rapid mutation, it's important to disinfect any surfaces touched by an infected individual.

This category includes numerous subtypes and strains, with varying degrees of severity. Contracting Influenza A typically results in illness lasting one to two weeks.

• INFLUENZA B

While Type B influenza is not as anticipated, it shares the same duration of one to two weeks. It is typically the strain responsible for epidemics, but it is not known to cause pandemics.

Type B is exclusive to humans and is generally milder than Type A. Nonetheless, it can still lead to potentially serious side effects.

• INFLUENZA C

Type C influenza is known to cause seasonal flu epidemics and is the mildest of all the influenza strains. It poses a risk to infants, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Its duration is usually between 3-7 days, but it may persist longer in individuals with preexisting medical conditions.

It is not rare for influenza C to occur alongside a pandemic outbreak of influenza A. Often perceived as a mild respiratory illness, it is frequently mistaken for the common cold by most people.

• INFLUENZA D

Initially believed to affect only swine and cattle, Influenza D was reconsidered by the medical community in 2011, with studies suggesting the possibility of transmission from animals to humans. This flu strain has the potential for global spread.

• H1N1 SWINE FLU

The swine flu, which emerged in Mexico in 2009, is a deadly virus comprising a mix of three human strains, along with swine and bird flu elements. It represents a mutation within influenza A and has led to the first global flu pandemic in over forty years.

• H5N1 BIRD FLU

Bird flu, also known as avian flu, is transmitted from birds to humans. Fortunately, it cannot spread from one person to another. Contracting this lethal strain of influenza means facing a survival rate of only 50 percent.

It's a serious influenza type associated with a high risk of severe complications, including multi-organ failure and significant mortality rates. Recent research on the virus's patterns in Egypt suggests the potential for human-to-human transmission, although it's not conclusively proven.

PROTECTING YOURSELF DURING FLU SEASON

The importance of self-protection during the flu season is clear, given that even a minor respiratory issue could be a case of influenza C.

To minimize the risk of illness for you and your family this year, here are 14 measures you can take to protect your health.

1. INCREASE HAND WASHING

It's impossible to overwash your hands. In the winter, they can become dry and cracked due to the cold weather and frequent washing. It's wise to always have lotion on hand. Are you aware that having open wounds on your hands can raise your risk of illness?

2. SOCIAL DISTANCING

Social distancing has become the norm. During flu season, it's wise to keep a distance from those who are sick. Unfortunately, it's not always clear who is infected. Maintaining a distance of at least six feet ensures that if someone coughs or sneezes, you're less likely to be affected by their germs.

3. WEAR A MASK IN PUBLIC

Wearing a mask is crucial for protection against invisible germs. When people cough or sneeze around you, a mask significantly reduces the risk of inhaling those germs. Ensure your mask fits properly, covering both your mouth and nose.

4. COUGH OR SNEEZE INTO YOUR ELBOW

When you need to cough or sneeze, aim for your elbow. This courtesy can prevent the spread of germs. Also, keep tissues within reach in case of sinus problems, which might alarm others who are cautious about their health.

5. COVER YOUR EARS, NOSE, AND MOUTH WHEN OUTDOORS

Consider using a scarf to cover your mouth, ears, and nose when outside. Cold air can be harsh on a compromised immune system, so it's important to keep these vulnerable areas warm.

6. AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE

There are numerous reasons to avoid touching your face, one being the risk of contracting influenza during flu season. For instance, if someone sneezes on an item in the grocery store and you handle it shortly after, the virus could transfer to your hands. It's best not to bring your hands close to your mouth or nose.

7. AVOID SHAKING HANDS

Shaking hands is a common social and business practice, but it's advisable to refrain from it during flu season. Celebrities like Howie Mandel, known for their aversion to germs, avoid handshakes. His cautious approach may not be as eccentric as once thought.

8. RESIST THE URGE TO HUG PEOPLE

It's wise to avoid hugging, even family members like your mother or grandmother, during the holidays for everyone's safety. If a hug is unavoidable, turn your face away to minimize contact.

9. CARRY HAND SANITIZER WITH YOU

Carrying hand sanitizer has become a norm. Ensure you have one with at least a 90 percent efficacy in killing germs. While it's no substitute for washing hands with soap and water, it's a beneficial supplement.

10. BEWARE OF DOORKNOBS

Touching dirty doorknobs is highly unpleasant. Consider how often a doorknob at your workplace is handled daily.

The number of germs on these surfaces is incredibly high. It's wise to use a paper towel or the end of your shirttail as a barrier.

11. AVOID PUBLIC BATHROOMS – PARTICULARLY DURING FLU SEASON

Holding your bladder is not advisable, except during flu season. Public bathrooms are hotbeds of germs and illness.

Handwashing by everyone would mitigate the risk somewhat. Unfortunately, not everyone practices good hygiene, spreading germs from shopping centers and their homes.

12. DO NOT SHARE DRINKS OR FOOD

Sharing a drink, like a sip of cider, may seem harmless, but it's best to avoid it. Your mouth's germs transfer to the cup and then to anyone else who drinks from it. Sharing food or drinks is particularly risky during flu season.

13. LIMIT SUGAR INTAKE

Sugar can weaken your immune system, making it more difficult to fend off illnesses. The winter months are known for an abundance of sweet treats, but it's crucial to eat healthily. Enjoy a few special indulgences, but ensure your diet promotes health and immunity.

14. TAKE IMMUNE-BOOSTING VITAMINS

The best action for your body this season is to stock up on vitamins C and D, as well as zinc and garlic. The aim is to strengthen your immune system so it can combat any pathogens it may encounter. Can you afford to be ill this winter?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimates that each person will experience 2-3 colds annually. Regrettably, nearly 10 percent of the population will grapple with influenza during flu season.

Taking steps to protect yourself is wise, as some flu strains can be fatal. While preventative measures don't ensure you won't fall ill, they can lessen the likelihood of contracting influenza. Safety and common sense are vital for a healthy, flu-free season.

Source: www.powerofpositivity.com

Author: Blog Team

This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Sources used for this content are reliable and publicly available.