Backspin Oct_2018 | Page 22

healthspin Take Aim Against the Flu A few years ago, a nasty bout of the flu almost prevented PGA champion Zach Johnson from making the Presidents Cup team. He’s proof that even the best and strongest athletes can be taken out of the game by the nasty respiratory infection. So, if you want to stay healthy, you might consider getting a flu vaccination. The flu vaccine can reduce illness, doctors’ visits and missed work or school, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. The more people who get vaccinated, the more people will be protected from the flu. Farhan Siddiqui, MD Getting an annual flu vaccine is the North Oaks Primary Care -- first and best way to protect yourself Hammond and your family from the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This is especially important for older people, very young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions who are more vulnerable to serious flu complications. While the numbers vary, in the United States, millions of people are sickened, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized and tens of thousands die from flu every year. Typically, the peak of flu season is November through March. Some years are worse than others, and this year vaccines have been updated to better match circulating viruses, according to the CDC. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body’s immune system to fully respond and for you to be protected. The CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October, if possible. However, getting vaccinated later – even into January or later -- can still be beneficial. The CDC recommends everyone six months of age and older get the flu shot. In addition to the vaccine, you can take 22 everyday preventive actions like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the virus to others. The following good health habits can also prevent the spread of the flu and other respiratory illnesses: Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread that way. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective. Follow your health care provider’s instructions for staying home from work or school when you are sick, and limit your contact with others to keep from infecting them. In general, it is recommended that you stay home until your symptoms are no longer being controlled by fever-reducing medications for at least 24 hours. For more information on flu shot availability, please call North Oaks at (985) 230-6647. Sources: www.flu.gov