Fight the flu with these strategies

Influenza can rear its head any time of the year, but is known to be a particularly bad thorn in one’s side when the weather is cold. According to WebMD, anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of the population will get the flu in an average year and it can take three to seven days for a regular case of the illness to go away, with some effects lingering for up to two weeks.

No one wants to get the flu, which is marked by fever, aches and pains, congestion, fatigue and other symptoms. As a result, people should do all they can to help prevent the flu – or at the very least shorten its duration.

The best way to stave off the flu is to get a flu vaccination each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the vaccine is carefully curated to treat against flu strains that research suggests will be the most common each flu season. Getting vaccinated by the end of October is recommended.

“Getting vaccinated every year against the flu is essential to protecting yourself and your family from this very serious illness,” said Dr. Kathy Lofy, health officer with the Washington State Department of Health. “Flu vaccines to protect you this fall and winter are available at many pharmacies and healthcare providers. Everyone six months and older, even healthy teens and young adults, should get vaccinated.”

Steer clear of sick individuals and make a concerted effort to avoid germs and the spread of germs. Diligently washing hands and avoiding touching your nose, eyes and mouth can help you avoid germs. In addition, repeatedly clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus.

“Last year was one of the most severe flu seasons on record for Washington and data just released shows only 61 percent of Washington children and teens were vaccinated. It’s important for us to protect each other this year. Flu vaccine is available everywhere. Don’t wait – get the vaccine for protection now,” Dr. Lofy said.

You might want to consider preventative treatment with an antiviral medication. In 2000, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of oseltamivir phosphate, known by the brand name Tamiflu, as a flu preventative. However, many people only reach for the drug when symptoms already have set in. Instead, it can be especially helpful in preventing the flu when someone in the household has already contracted the illness. The results of several clinical studies show that Tamiflu, when taken once daily, is up to 92 percent effective in preventing influenza illness in adolescents, adults and the elderly.

Drink plenty of liquids during flu season to keep the body well hydrated so the immune system can be in top form. Fruit juices, water, broth-based soups and sports drinks can help keep the respiratory system from forming thick mucus that can become laden with bacteria. Should a fever set in, fluids help prevent dehydration.

It also can be wise to take zinc supplements during cold and flu season. Neil Schachter, M.D., medical director of the respiratory care department at Mount Sinai Medical Center and the author of ‘The Good Doctor’s Guide to Colds & Flu,’ says zinc may boost immunity, which can shorten the duration or severity of the flu.

In Washington, all recommended vaccines are provided to individuals age 18 and below. Providers can charge for an office visit or a vaccine administrative fee.