Sick with the flu Published Nov. 22, 2011 By Senior Airman Whitney Stanfield 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Do you like staying at home and avoiding contact with others? That is the right thing to do if you have flu-like symptoms. "We [4th Medical Group (MDG)] offer the flu shot or mist prior to the flu season to prevent servicemembers and their families from catching the virus," said Senior Airman Chauntoyia Johnson, 4 MDG medical technician. The flu is an airborne disease transmitted by coughs, sneezes or direct contact with contaminated surfaces. You may have the flu if you exhibit the following symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting. Warning signs to look for in children are changes in breathing, bluish skin, loss of appetite, isolation, irritability and a fever with a rash. Infants, on the other hand, need immediate care if they show symptoms of being unable to eat, trouble breathing, no tears when crying and significantly fewer wet diapers than normal. "It is very important for flu victims to wash their hands, acquire Vitamin C through tablets or orange juice and wear a mask to prevent the spread of the virus," Johnson said. The medicine that will be prescribed depends on how far along the virus is in one's body. Taking all prescribed medicine is essential to getting well faster. If all the medicine is not taken then the virus can return because pathogens are not strong enough to be prevalent. Active duty servicemembers need to call the clinic to schedule an appointment to be placed quarters. Dependents should stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone except to recieve medical care. Resting the body helps increase the amount of energy the immune system has available to fight off the virus. Increasing fluid intake is another effective treatment. Fluids help break up mucus production and flush the virus out of your system. "Resting at home gives the body a chance to recuperate and prevent the passing of the virus," said Airman 1st Class Jenai O'Blosser, 4 MDG house service management journeyman. Contact the 4th Medical Group for help tips about the flu or to schedule an appointment, 919-722-1802.