We all know how bad the flu can be. The flu is a virus that spreads easily from one person to another and can affect anyone at any age. It usually causes annual epidemics specifically in temperate regions.
Those who are most at risk of complications from the flu are children under 2 years of age, people over 65 years of age and those who suffer from certain conditions such as diabetes, heart, lung, liver, kidney disease, as well as those who suffer from immunodeficiency. Its most common symptoms include a high fever, cough, sore throat, joint and muscle pain, headache, and runny nose.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to protect yourself and keep this virus away. Find out if vaccines are really effective against the flu, what myths surround this disease and what is the best way to prevent and treat it.
Are flu vaccines effective?
While epidemiologists have made strides in understanding flu-associated viruses, there is still no way to predict with certainty what the next few seasons will bring. Vaccines are generally made before the flu virus begins to spread, and one guess is based on the previous year’s flu season.
You may have heard that last year’s vaccine was minimally effective; however the first reported cases of the year in the US are a result of the current vaccine, and it is possible that the efficacy of the vaccine may change. But despite this, it is best to take extra precautions to keep this virus away from you.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best protection against the flu is to get vaccinated. That is why the flu vaccine is recommended for all people older than six months, being a vaccine that is not contraindicated. However, it’s best to make sure you discuss any possible allergies with your doctor.
The doctor Alan Weiss of the Haven Health System of the University of Yale, confirms and recommends the vaccine to all people capable of receiving the vaccine and who want to reduce the chances of contracting the flu , and get it as soon as possible and available . The doctor emphasizes getting vaccinated particularly those people at risk of complications from the flu due to chronic medical conditions.
What myths exist around the flu?
The flu maintains 3 main myths, including:
- Is it possible to get the flu from the vaccine? Not! Occasionally people experience low fevers for several hours after receiving the vaccine, but it does not mean you have the flu.
- Does the vaccine bring side effects ? The most common side effect is pain at the injection site.
- Is it too late to get the vaccine once the flu has started? Not! According to Dr. Weiss, as long as the flu is still present in your environment it is worth getting vaccinated. Even for people who have already had the flu, it can offer protection by reducing the risk of getting it again.
What additional precautions can be taken to avoid the flu?
Beyond getting vaccinated, there are several things you can do to lower your risk of getting the flu. Between them:
- Make sure you get enough rest due to the stress of the holiday season.
- Maintain a balanced and healthy diet, mainly with foods of plant origin.
- Exercise daily.
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your mouth, eyes, and nose.
- Regularly clean doorknobs and other frequently touched surfaces.
What treatment should you follow against the flu?
If you do get the flu, it is important that you follow these recommendations before any treatment:
- Don’t go to work or school.
- Keep hydrated; You will benefit from drinking hot liquids, such as herbal tea and broth.
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Watch for worsening symptoms such as rising fever, shortness of breath, vomiting, or confusion. If you experience any of these problems, call your doctor immediately.
- If you have any underlying or chronic conditions, call your doctor as soon as you suspect the flu. Your doctor may prescribe a flu antiviral medicine, such as Oseltamivor or Zanamivir , to avoid complications.
Reference
- Weiss, L. How to Beat the Flu This Season. For Livestrong [Revised December 2015].
