According to recent statistics, the flu infects five to twenty percent of the United States population. Reports from the World Health Organization show that the flu causes 250,000 to 500,000 deaths annually.

With the flu affecting so many lives and being so easy to spread, fighting the flu is imperative. Here is how to protect your health.

Flu Symptoms

The flu can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. It can even lead to death at times. Symptoms will usually arrive very suddenly.

If you are fighting the flu, you may experience the following flu symptoms:

• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle or body aches
• Sore throat
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Vomiting

Some people feeling sick with the flu may have a fever, but not all.

Get the Flu Vaccine

Your first line of defense against the flu is to get the flu vaccine. Not only will it protect you, but it will reduce the chances of passing on the flu, too.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

It is vital for preventing the spread of germs, including the flu virus. Remember that even a flu vaccine is not foolproof; there can always be new types of viruses that develop. Hence, washing your hand thoroughly will help to protect against the flu and other viruses, like the common cold.

When should you wash your hands?

• After coughing or sneezing
• After using the bathroom
• Before eating, preparing, or serving food
• Before putting in contact lenses and before removing them
• Before using makeup

Whenever you are out in public and around others, washing your hands when you come home thoroughly is good.

Stay Away From People Who Appear to Be Sick

The flu virus spreads by air. If someone is coughing, sneezing, or looks like they are feeling sick, you should steer clear of that individual.

Although, someone does not have to be sick for them to spread the flu virus. That is why it is equally essential to get the flu vaccine and wash your hands thoroughly.

Further, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth before washing your hands. These are areas of the human body where a virus can quickly enter.

Stay Home When Feeling Sick

Even if you do not have a diagnosis from a doctor, but you are feeling nauseous or feeling tired, stay home and rest. If you exhibit any symptoms in this article, assume you may have the flu.

You need to get better, but you also want to prevent others from getting sick. Rest is best.

Flu Treatment

If you are not at high risk for flu complications, we recommend you check out this cold and flu oil blend.

People with diabetes, asthma, or heart disease should seek antiviral drug treatment. Such medications include peramivir (Rapivab®), oseltamivir (Tamiflu®), and zanamivir (Relenza®).

The CDC recommends flu treatment medication if you are at high risk for significant complications.

Fighting the Flu

Getting the vaccination, washing your hands, staying away from sick people, and staying home when you are sick are the best methods for fighting the flu. Stay healthy!

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