Don't Let the Flu Get You!

Picture provided by: MSNBC

Flu season is well upon us and considering the groundhog’s prediction of a longer winter, the flu season may stick around even longer. Yuck! The American Red Cross is concerned with everyone’s well-being and the East Georgia Chapter teaches ten different classes on health and safety. Although these classes are not necessarily geared towards flu prevention, here’s some information we should all be aware of during flu season.

Influenza, also known as the flu, is most common in the winter, but also occurs during fall and spring seasons. The flu is a highly contagious virus that can spread simply by talking to a person infected with the virus. While many have heard of the swine flu or bird flu, the most common type of flu is the seasonal flu, which affects 5-20% of Americans every year.
The following people are more likely to get the flu:

• People 50 years are older
• People who have chronic medical conditions
• Women who are pregnant
• Children between the ages of 6 months and 2 years old
• Children’s symptoms will often last longer since their immune systems are still developing.
• Elderly living in a long term care facility

Watch out for these symptoms to detect the virus as soon as possible!  

Picture provided by: Evidence Based Living

• Severe body aches
• High fever
• Headaches
• Extreme tiredness
• Sore Throat
• Cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Avoid the Flu By Following These Simple Steps

• Take your vitamins!
• Practice good health habits. Eat a balanced diet, drink lots of fluids, exercise, manage stress and get a good’s nice rest.
• Keep your hands to yourself!
• Try not to spread germs. Always wash your hands with soap and water and use a tissue to cover your nose or mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• Stay home and watch movies!
• Try to avoid contact with others when you are sick. A distance of 3 feet is recommended.
• Get the Flu Shot! 




Picture provided by: Around Town Kids

• This is one of the most effective ways to fight the flu, reducing the risk up to 80%. People should get the shot every year. It is recommended you get the shot between September and mid-November, but your local CVS®, Kroger®, and RiteAid® are currently offering the vaccination. Do not worry if you do not have insurance. At CVS®, if you do not have insurance, you receive a $5 gift card!  

If you think you or someone you know might be getting sick, you should let a doctor diagnose the symptoms. Treat the flu as early as possible in order to avoid further complications. For more information, visit The American Red Cross’ web site at   to make sure you are Red Cross Ready to prevent or fight the flu!

For even more information, visit: flu.gov

- Mary Elaine Gambill