Is Flu Season Over?

The flu has been on everyone's minds the past two months, with good reason. This has been one of the worst flu season's we've had in recent years.

So what can you do to keep from getting the flu? Since the beginning of winter, the CDC has been recommending that everyone 6 months and older who is able to be vaccinated, does so. (Please note, we agree with the right to vaccinate your family or not).

Other Ways To Prevent The Flu

• Get plenty of sleep. It increases your immunity.

• Eat healthy to boost your immune system.

• Avoid contact with sick people.

• Try to avoid stress. Stress reduces your immunity.

• Several vitamins and supplements can help improve immunity, including Glutathione, Turmeric, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc.

• It's been suggested that Elderberry Syrup can also prevent (and help treat) the flu.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

Flu Symptoms

Influenza (also known as the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It causes a mild to severe illness, and can lead to death. The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some (or all) of the following symptoms:

• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills (not everyone will have this symptom)

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Muscle or body aches

• Headaches

• Fatigue (tiredness)

• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Emergency Flu Symptoms

In children

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing

• Bluish skin color

• Not drinking enough fluids

• Not waking up or not interacting

• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held

• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

• Fever with a rash

In adults

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

• Sudden dizziness

• Confusion

• Severe or persistent vomiting

• Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In addition to the signs above, get medical help right away for any infant who has any of these signs:

• Being unable to eat

• Has trouble breathing

• Has no tears when crying

• Significantly fewer wet diapers than normal

If You're Sick

• If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (without the use of fever-reducing medicine) except to get medical care or for other necessities.

• Limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• See a doctor as soon as possible after symptoms start for diagnosis.

• Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.

According to data on the Oklahoma State Department of Health's OK Flu View (below), it appears that we hit the peak of flu activity here in Oklahoma a few weeks ago. Current data shows that there have been more than 173 flu-related deaths statewide, which is significantly higher than past years.

However, being past the peak doesn't mean the risk of flu is completely gone. 5 of those deaths and 300 hospitalizations occurred just in the past week, and flu activity is still being referred to as "elevated" by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). So don't break out the champagne just yet! Just follow the prevention steps above; and if you or your children get sick, please don't go to school or work until you're past the point of contagion. Your coworkers and your children's classmate's parents will thank you.

How are you and your family avoiding the #flu this year?