Cold & Flu season is upon us, beginning in the fall and winter months and peaking between December and February. Unfortunately, it can stick around until as long as May, making us feel miserable. In young children and the elderly, the flu and its complications could even cause death. An uncomplicated case of the flu can last from three to seven days in most people, including children. Symptoms of coughing and feeling weak or fatigued can last for two weeks or longer.
The annual flu vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications and is recommended for all people aged 6 months and over. Even if the flu shot is missed at the early part of flu season doctors still recommend getting the shot since the flu season lasts several months.
Some tips to avoid contact with germs that could cause cold and flu symptoms include:
-Frequent hand washing
-Avoid touching your face
-Stay rested /get enough sleep at night
-Make sure you are taking your vitamins and staying nutritionally healthy
-Exercise
-Change and wash bath towels frequently
-Use Lysol / Clorox / Disinfectant wipes to clean counter tops, bathroom surfaces, TV remotes, phones, frequently touched surfaces in your home regularly
-Stock up on Kleenex and hand sanitizers, especially for kids who go to school or daycare
-Dispose of Kleenex in the trash, do not sit them on surfaces
-Use the wipes and hand sanitizer at the grocery store for the cart handles when they are available
-If you or your child are sick, please stay home to avoid spreading the virus until you are fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication
-Stay away from larger crowds if you are especially concerned or sensitive
-Cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands
-Don't wear your shoes in the house
Griffin Insurance wants you to stay healthy this year and beat the flu. If you have any other tips you would like to share with us that works for your family, let us know by emailing us at brandy@griffininsurance.com, or commenting on our facebook page so we can share them!