During the fall and winter of each year, there seems to be a dramatic increase in the number of flu cases. During those months, you may notice that your family doctor's office is filled with people who are sniffling, sneezing, coughing and blowing their nose. These and other classic flu symptoms, such as a fever, chills, weakness, and achiness, can make it difficult for patients to perform daily duties.
Most people dread the thought of catching the flu, but they may not know how to avoid it. Here are a few things that your family doctor would likely suggest to help you lessen your likelihood of becoming ill with the flu:
Get a Flu Shot
Although a flu shot is not likely to cover every strain of flu that may be circulating, it does cause the body to develop antibodies for the viruses included in the flu vaccine. The flu vaccine usually differs from year to year. Each year's vaccine includes the most common strains identified for the coming season.
A flu vaccine is often covered by most insurance plans as a preventive treatment. Patients can schedule an appointment with their family doctor for a vaccination.
Contact a Family Doctor as Soon as Symptoms Present
Patients should also contact their doctor's office as soon as flu symptoms arise. Antiviral medications can sometimes be applied in the early stages of the flu to lessen the severity of the symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness.
A family doctor can verify the presence of the flu using a specialized test. The test is minimally invasive and only requires a swab of the nostrils.
Keep Your Distance From People with Flu Symptoms
The flu can be spread from close contact with people who are sick with the virus. As a result, if possible, it is best to not to maintain close contact with the sick,
If a person within your home is ill with the virus, try to isolate the individual in a separate bedroom. Ask the ill person to use a tissue to cover his or her nose and mouth when the person coughs and sneezes. Also, be sure that used tissues are promptly discarded.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Keeping your hands washed regularly with warm soapy water can help prevent the spread of flu germs. If you are not near a sink, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Keep Your Hands Away From Your Nose, Eyes, and Mouth
The flu virus can enter your system through your nose, ears, and mouth. Thus, it is important to refrain from touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face.
For more tips to avoid becoming ill with the flu, schedule an appointment with a family doctor in your area like those at Snow Creek Medical Center.
Share30 September 2017
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