One of the most common viruses that often affect people on a regular basis is influenza, also known as the flu, which is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system by congesting your nose, throat, and lungs, along with other regular symptoms that can vary in severity.
While influenza viruses are detected anywhere at any time of the year, there is a specific span of time where the influenza virus is at its most contagious, also known as “flu season”. This is where flu activity seems to be at its highest. In the United States, this season normally occurs in the fall and winter months, peaking in December and February across a 6-month period.
While the flu is capable of affecting anyone, certain patients are more vulnerable to the flu, such as younger children, older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and patients suffering from chronic illnesses. Additionally, it’s important to remember what effects and symptoms the flu is capable of causing as well, which can include fever, nausea, runny nose, frequent coughs, headaches, and overall body weakness.
There are effective ways to protect yourself from contracting the flu or at least managing it when sick, especially during these months where the spread of the virus is at its highest. These methods all rely on taking preventative measures to help combat the virus, including:
- Vaccinate against the flu
- Keep your distance and avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick to prevent spreading your illness to others
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Washing your hands often
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, especially when someone is ill
- Get plenty of sleep to recover
- Exercise regularly and stay active
- Manage your stress
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food
Knowing what precautions to take when dealing with the flu is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones, and it’s important to consider all possible angles where the flu season could affect you.
Central Florida Total Healthcare is here to help you, as the health of our patients is of the utmost importance to us. We invite you to schedule an appointment with us to get your influenza vaccine and to learn more about how you can take care of yourself and others during the peak months of flu season. You can call us at (407) 392-1919 or you can visit our website.