Blue Cross lists tips for fighting flu

Blue Cross lists tips for fighting fluSun Nov 16, 2008, 01:00 PM EST

According to the Centers for Disease Control an average of 200,000 people suffer from the flu each year, with 36,000 fatalities associated with the virus. Because of the flu’s widespread effects, knowing the facts of the flu and how to prevent it is increasingly important.

What is the flu?
The flu, short for seasonal influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a strain of influenza virus that affects primarily humans. Seasonal flu outbreaks occur every year, and can cause mild to severe illness in people. The best protection against seasonal flu is vaccination.

How can I keep from getting the flu?
When it comes to prevention there are a few things that can help you steer clear of the influenza virus. First, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw out the tissue in the nearest wastebasket and then immediately wash your hands with soap and water. Don't sneeze into your hand if you don't have a tissue. Instead, use the crook of your arm. Also, frequently wash your hands with soap and water. When hand washing is not possible, use antiseptic hand gels that contain alcohol. Stay at home when you are sick and keep your kids at home when they are sick.

Do I need a flu shot?
While anyone may get a flu shot, some are at a higher risk for influenza and are strongly advised to receive the vaccination. Those at a high risk include people who are:

65 years and older
Living in a nursing home or other long-term care facility
Living with chronic heart or lung conditions, including asthma

In need of regular medical care or were in a hospital during the previous year because of a metabolic disease (like diabetes), chronic kidney disease, or weakened immune system (including immune system problems caused by medicines or by infection with human immunodeficiency virus [HIV/AIDS])

A child six months to 18 years of age on long-term aspirin therapy. (Children given aspirin while they have influenza are at risk of Reye syndrome)

A woman who will be pregnant during the influenza season
A child six to 23 months of age
A person with any condition that can compromise respiratory function or the handling of respiratory secretions (that is, a condition that makes it hard to breathe or swallow, such as brain injury or disease, spinal cord injuries, seizure disorders, or other nerve or muscle disorders)

A person who can transmit flu to others at high risk for complications, including health-care workers, household contacts, and out-of-home caregivers of infants up to 23 months of age, and close contacts of people 65 years and older

Can the flu be treated?
Treatment for seasonal influenza is usually ineffective, as the virus changes frequently and can develop a resistant to most treatment options. However, with a flu shot and diligent prevention disciplines, you can put up a good defense. Should you catch the flu, talk with you doctor about what you can do to relieve its symptoms.

For more information visit the Get Educated section of My Wellbeing on bluecrossma.com.

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