This article was first printed in 2007—and we thought that it is worth repeating.
TIPS FOR LIVING WELL
Influenza is a highly infectious viral illness occurring in winter months (October to March). The “flu season”
usually begins in November, peaks in late December or January, and is typically over in March. Because it takes two weeks to develop the immunity provided by the vaccine, the flu vaccine is given October through November. Persons of any age with chronic conditions that increase their risk of complications from influenza should be immunized. An abrupt onset of fever, chills, myalgia, headache, severe and persistent malaise, eye pain, light sensitivity and substernal burning of the chest characterize uncomplicated influenza. Respiratory symptoms include a non-productive cough, sore throat and rhinitis.
Influenza is highly contagious, with an attack rate of 10% to 20% from the day before symptoms began through approximately 5 days after onset in adults. It is spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing. Contaminated hands are a frequent source of transmission and infection. It is important to wash hands frequently.
Hopefully no one reading this will experience influenza because they will have the immunization. But if you should develop influenza and not be at high-risk for complications there are a few general steps to speed recovery and protect others.
Stay in your suite to protect others from infection.
Get plenty of rest.
Drink plenty of liquids.
Do not drink alcohol or use tobacco products.
Consider over-the-counter medications to relieve the symptoms.
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Wash hands frequently.
For your convenience, we will be scheduling The Hopkins County Health Department again this year to give “Flu Shots” at The Paragon. The date and times will be published in the October newsletter. We will also post the time and date on the bulletin board.
We will be getting our “Flu Shot” and hope you will to!
Ruth
