Flu season is upon us. Typically, seasonal flu activity happens between October and May. In the United States, peak months for catching a case of the flu are December, January and February.
It’s always a good idea to get a refresher course on what the flu is about and what you can do to protect yourself and your co-workers from getting sick. Here are a few must-know facts and tips:
Flu Defined
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines influenza, or the flu, as a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness. A serious flu condition can require hospitalization. Sometimes, death can occur.
It’s important to note that anyone can get the flu but certain people are more susceptible to getting sick, like the elderly, children and people with certain health conditions.
5 Tips for Fighting Flu
There are lots of preventative measures you can take to keep yourself healthy this flu season. Follow these tips at home, school or at work – wherever your travels take you.
#1: Stay Home
If you’re sick, limit your exposure to other people as much as possible. Better yet, stay home from work for 24 hours after your fever has subsided. And if one of your co-workers is sick with the flu, steer clear of him or her.
#2: Wash Hands
It’s a simple but very effective action – wash your hands with soap and water (and do it often!)
#3: Don’t Touch
Prevent germs from spreading – avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
#4: Disinfect Surfaces
Clean and disinfect any surface or item that you think might have been exposed to germs.
#5: Get Vaccinated
The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone over the age of six months. It can protect you from the most commonly reported flu strains and limit your trips to the doctor (and your days out of the office).
Symptoms
Sometimes even your best efforts can’t prevent you from getting sick. You may feel some or all of these symptoms when you have the flu. And if you’re seriously feeling crummy, call your doctor right away:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Body/muscle aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
Additional Resources
Below are some more handy resources about the flu and how to stay healthy this winter: