How to Combat the Flu!

Flu season is upon us, and it’s important to shed light on what you need to know about this time. As we age, our immune systems become weaker. This puts seniors 65 and older at a considerable risk for experiencing
worsening of other chronic conditions.

One of the most recommended ways of preventing the flu is to get your flu shot. Many may believe that you can catch the flu from the flu shot. However, this is a common misconception because the vaccine contains a killed virus, which enables the immune system to make antibodies to help fight the disease.

There’s also a higher dose vaccine available for adults 65 and older. This higher dosage helps give seniors better protection and immune response to combating the flu.

The following suggestions also help in preventing the flu.

Be sure to properly wash your hands, this means before eating food, before and after caring for someone who is sick or treating a wound, after blowing your nose or coughing, after handling garbage to name a few. Proper hand washing recommends wetting your hands and lathering with soap to your palms, between your fingers, the backs of your hands, and under your nails. Then scrub your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds, twice through. Rinse well and then dry them with a clean towel or hand dryer.

Touching your nose, eyes or mouth can increase your risk of illness because it spreads germs into the mucus membranes and respiratory system.

Crowded places, as well as poorly ventilated places can expose you to the flu virus and allow it to spread
more easily during peak flu season.

Your body needs vitamin C daily, not just when you’re sick. Although supplements can be great, you should get your vitamin C from nutrients in the food you eat. Dark leafy greens, tomatoes, broccoli and berries are just a few of the fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C.

Exercising for at least 30 minutes, three times a week is the recommended amount of exercise. However, did you know exercise also aids in warding off the flu?

When the body is sleep deprived it can make you susceptible to falling victim to the flu virus and other illnesses. By getting enough sleep each night, your body gets the time it needs to recuperate and fight off illness.

Additionally, the flu is contagious and can spread quickly through coughing, sneezing, or touching common surfaces. You may have the flu if you experience these symptoms: aches and pains, sore throat, cough, headache, fever, fatigue and runny or stuffy nose. Seniors may also include stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The flu can worsen and lead to dehydration, pneumonia or worsen other chronic conditions including emphysema, heart disease and asthma.

The flu lasts 3 days to two weeks, if symptoms last longer or worsen, consult with your doctor immediately.