With a change in season, numerous people tend to be susceptible to influenza (commonly known as “flu”). Caused by viruses, flu can affect everyone in your family right from kids and elders to pregnant women. In elderly people and those with chronic health problems such as diabetes, heart disease and asthma, it can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions[1]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, on an average, around 3-5 million people suffer from the flu every year. Furthermore, flu causes around 2,90,000 – 6,50,000 deaths every year[2]. So this season, let’s be prepared beforehand to fight flu and protect our family from this deadly infection.
5 Tips To Prevent Flu
Influenza, which is commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. It is a contagious disease which means that the virus can spread from one person to another through the air. So if a person suffering from flu coughs or sneezes, there is a high chance that you may also get infected with the flu virus. You can stay protected from flu by following a few simple tips at home, school and office. Here are some of the simple tips and tricks that can help you to prevent the spread of the flu.
1. Wash Your Hands
Washing your hands with soap and water often can help stop the spread of germs and lower your risk of getting infections[3]. The flu virus can live on a surface like a book, mouse, or doorknob for a number of hours. So touching these objects can up the risk of infection. If water is not available, you can use alcohol-based hand rub or sanitiser to clean your hands.
2. Cover Your Nose And Mouth
It is important to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or hand-kerchief when coughing or sneezing[3]. Doing so prevents the spread of the virus from a sick person to a healthy person. Moreover, covering your mouth with a mask can also prevent the entry of germs and help you stay protected. Also, avoid close contact with a sick person to lower your risk of infection.
3. Do Not Touch Your Eyes/Nose/Mouth
Flu and other serious respiratory illnesses, are spread by coughing or sneezing[3]. So if you touch any object contaminated by the virus, and do not clean your hands, then there is a high chance of getting an infection if you touch your eyes/nose or mouth with unclean hands.
4. Eat A Healthy Diet
A healthy diet plays a key role in boosting your immunity and helping you to stay fit. It is always advised to eat a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Also, include foods rich in Vitamin C in your diet, especially during the flu season, as these are rich in antioxidants and help boost immunity to fight infections. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
5. Get Flu Shot
According to the CDC, annual flu vaccination is the first and most important step to stay protected from the flu and also prevent the potentially dangerous health complications associated with the flu[3]. It not only lowers the risk of respiratory illnesses but also cuts down on your doctor’s visits and missed days at work and school during the season. Moreover, it can also prevent hospitalization due to flu-related health complications.
Ask your doctor to know more about influenza vaccination today!
References:
1. Preventive Steps. Seasonal Influenza (Flu). Prevent Flu. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available on: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/prevention.htm
2. Ask the expert: Influenza Q&A. Influenza (Seasonal). The World Health Organization (WHO). Available on: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal)
3. Healthy Habits to Help Prevent Flu. Prevent Flu. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Available on: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/actions-prevent-flu.htm
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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are independent and unbiased views solely of the publisher. This is a part of the public awareness initiative on influenza supported by Sanofi Pasteur India. Sanofi Pasteur bears no responsibility for the content of this article. One should consult their healthcare provider for any health-related information.
Updated Date: Sep 20, 2019 12:38:25 IST