This flu season has made it clear that it’s one unlike most others. Visits to doctors, hospitalizations and even deaths, although still rare, have been higher than expected with this flu strain. The swine flu is in its prime, but you have the power to maintain control of your susceptibility. Knowing the systems and how to stay healthy are your best weapons against this media-blitzed health crisis. It’s time to end H1N1’s moment in the spotlight.
First, know your risks and know the systems. Underlying medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and pregnancy increase the risk of flu-related complications. In the earliest cases diagnosed, clinical data collected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that fever (93%) and cough (83%) were the most widely reported symptoms, followed by fatigue or weakness (54%), chills (37%) and muscle soreness (36%). All the symptoms of the H1N1 virus are typical of the seasonal flu, although vomiting and diarrhea have been more commonly reported than usual.
Flu symptoms can often be confused with those of the common cold, but understand these differences:
ü Colds rarely produce a fever. A temperature above 100°F for 3-4 days is common of H1N1.
ü A productive (mucus-producing) cough is a cold symptom, while a dry, unproductive cough is usually matched with the flu.
ü More intense aches (including chest discomfort) and fatigue, as opposed to slight pains and tiredness, are associated with the flu virus.
ü A stuffy nose, sore throat and sneezing are not common symptoms of the H1N1 flu.
ü Chills are an uncommon cold symptom, while very common with the flu.
ü Cold systems are slow developing, over the period of several days. The flu virus has a rapid onset of just a few hours, hitting hard with sudden symptoms.
To do more than rely on antibodies, keep your health in check with these basic methods of protection:
ü Wash your hands frequently.
ü Keep your hands away from your face; resist the temptation to touch.
ü Gargle salt water daily (or Listerine mouth wash as an alternative) to prevent flu proliferation.
ü Give your nose a good blow! And cleanse your nostrils daily with a swab of salt water.
ü Get lots of Vitamin C, through foods or supplements – but make sure tablets have Zinc to boost absorption.
ü Drink hot liquids like tea and coffee to wash away infectious viruses from the throat.
Remember to protect yourself and protect others by maintaining your health.
References:
(2009, October 7). Key Facts About 2009 H1N1 Flu Vaccine. Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/vaccine_keyfacts.htm
(2009, October 21). 2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu). Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
(2009, October 16). 2009 H1N1 Flu: Situation Update. Retrieved from
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/update.htm
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