Flu season back in session

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Cassie Cosentino
  • 4th Aeromedical Dental Squadron Public Health Flight
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  It is flu season once again. Kids are back in school, football season is in full swing and unfortunately, influenza begins to rear its ugly head. Airmen and their families can take several steps to remain healthy this season.

The flu, as it is commonly known, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fever, chills, sore throat, cough, runny nose, headaches, muscle aches and/or overall fatigue. The flu can affect anyone but can cause serious complications in the elderly, young children and people with certain health conditions.

Here are a few simple steps to protect you and your family from the flu. The first and best step is to get vaccinated. Vaccines are already available and are recommended for anyone over 6 months old. This year, new vaccines are available to not only protect against the seasonal flu but also from H1N1.

Next, consider these everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs:

- Wash hands regularly.

- Practice cough and sneeze etiquette. Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after use. Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth.

- Limit contact with sick people and if you are feeling ill, limit contact with others. The Center for Disease Control recommends staying home at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.

- Practice good health habits: get plenty of rest, eat nutritious food and stay physically active.

Flu season does not have to be a worrisome time. By following these simple, preventive measures, Airmen and their families can remain healthy. Visit the CDC's website at http://cdc.gov/flu/ or contact Public Health at 722-1172 for more information about how to protect against the flu virus

Remember: "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." - Benjamin Franklin