Trusted Health Products
Written By Ella Brown / Reviewed By Ray Spotts
Flu is the most common health problem that almost every person suffers from at least once in their lifetime.
More than one billion flu cases are reported every year, according to the WHO (World Health Organization). Three to five million of these cases report severe health conditions. And, about 290,000 to 650,000 people die every year due to influenza-related respiratory deaths.
Most of these cases are reported during the flu season, which starts in October and ends in May. Therefore, it is essential that you take utmost care of yourself during this season. But, before that, you must understand what the symptoms of flu are.
Common Symptoms Of Flu
It is a respiratory infection that affects numerous people every year. It is contagious, therefore, taking utmost protection is more than crucial. Generally, the signs of viruses are mild, so people tend to neglect them. However, not taking proper precautions increases the chances of pneumonia.
So, you must pay attention to the following signs of flu:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Body ache
- Coughing
- Runny Nose
- Sore throat
Ideally, it takes a week to recover from these symptoms. But it is essential that you visit your doctor and get annual vaccinations to help your body fight back. Generally, it is recommended to go for the Quadrivalent flu vaccine (for people aged two to 49) as it provides utmost protection from viruses. Nonetheless, in addition to vaccines, you also have to take some preventive measures.
What are these measures? Let’s take a look!
Avoid Large Crowds
The first step for staying safe is to avoid visiting crowded places. Usually, the flu season and festive season begin simultaneously. People often go out to crowded places to purchase gifts, food, and whatnot. This increases the risk of getting infected. That’s why you should avoid going to crowded places, especially the most visited ones, as much as possible.
In case you have to go out, avoid going during the rush hours. Also, wear a mask and keep a sanitizer with you at all times. If you see any person sneezing or coughing, maintain a good distance from them.
Note: As the symptoms of Covid-19 and flu are almost similar, it is essential that you follow the six feet social distancing rule and cover your face in public places. Also, if it’s possible, order online and sanitize your packages to avoid chances of infection.
Wash Your Hands Frequently
Generally, viruses stay active on hard surfaces like stainless steel, plastic, or wood. Unknowingly, you can get infected by touching these surfaces. That’s why you should wash your hands regularly - especially before preparing and eating food.
Apart from this, you should carry hand sanitizer with you and sanitize your hands after regular intervals. Doctors recommend sanitizing your hands after touching common surfaces like:
- Doorknob
- Lightswitch
- Counters
In addition to sanitizing your hands, you should also avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes. It is because sometimes the flu enters your body when infected hands touch the face. So avoid it.
Also, while coughing and sneezing, use a tissue or your elbow. Make sure to throw away the tissue immediately to reduce the risk of infection.
If you have kids at home, you must teach them the habit of washing their hands, as they get sick more easily than adults. Plus, make sure to keep them away from a symptomatic person.
Boost Your Immune System
As you might already know, a strong immune system helps in fighting the disease. Even in case you get sick, the antibodies present in your body will reduce the severity of symptoms. That’s why, during flu season, you should try to strengthen your immune system.
For that, you should follow a nutrient-rich diet. Reduce sugar intake. Instead, start eating more fruits and vegetables, particularly those which are high in vitamins and antioxidants. Not to mention, doctors also recommend sleeping for seven to nine hours and exercising for at least 30 minutes for better immunity.
Tip: If your immune system is weak, ask your doctor about multivitamins for better support.
Keep The Surroundings Clean And Disinfected
Needless to say, keeping your house and office workspace clean and disinfected is crucial to prevent infection. According to a study, a contaminated doorknob or tabletop can spread the virus to 40 to 60 percent of people. To prevent it, you must clean your doorknob, cabinet, mobile, laptop, light switch, and other highly touched surfaces every day.
Also, if someone in your house gets sick, you should clean their room frequently to reduce the risk of contracting the flu. It is also suggested to wear a surgical mask and gloves when going near them. This will ensure that the house, particularly their room, stays germ-free, thus promotes faster recovery.
Visit Your Doctor
As the symptoms of regular flu and Covid-19 overlap, it is essential that you visit your doctor. The doctor will conduct the tests to diagnose the cause of your sickness. In the meantime, you should self-quarantine yourself, wear a mask, and practice proper hygiene to reduce the spread of infection.
Once it's confirmed that you have the regular flu, get vaccinated immediately. The doctor might also suggest some other medications or antibiotics that’ll help you feel better. Nonetheless, if you have any allergies, you must disclose them to your doctor before getting the shot.
Note: Generally, it takes two weeks for a vaccine to show effectiveness. If you get sick after getting vaccinated, the shot will help in fighting the germs and bacteria, thus reducing the risk of further infection.
Also, remember that it is essential for people who are above 65 to get vaccinated before every season, especially in October. It can help in protecting you from pneumonia, meningitis, and other infections.
To Sum It All Up
Flu viruses are dangerous, and if you don’t take proper precautions or get vaccinated, it can lead to a life-threatening situation. Therefore, you must pay attention to its signs and visit your doctor. Also, keep in mind that a healthy lifestyle will help you stay protected from such diseases. So, you must eat healthy food that will strengthen your immune system.
Looking for a 100% all-natural liquid tooth oil and mouth rinse? Check out OraMD Original Strength and OraMD Extra Strength. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources make sure to check out the Trusted Health Resources list.
Written By:
Ella Brown is a content specialist specializing in the healthcare and medical niche. She shares helpful insights on the leading healthcare blogs and sites.
Reviewed By:
Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.
Photo by Mufid Majnun on Unsplash
