Lack of flu preparedness: What you need to know to protect your family

| January 12, 2015

(BPT) – In the middle of winter, snowstorms and severe weather might be top of mind, but when was the last time you thought about the flu? Are you one of the many individuals who don’t think the flu is serious until you experience it firsthand?

Those who have had the flu before were significantly more likely to be concerned about flu season versus those who never had it, according to a recent national survey conducted by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID). The survey also found that while U.S. adults are more concerned about flu this season compared to the 2011-12 season, few take actions to protect against and fight the flu. Among those surveyed, 41 percent receive an annual flu vaccine only after flu hits their local area.

“All individuals should prepare for the possibility of flu. If people wait to get vaccinated until after flu is in their community, it may not be adequate because flu antibodies take two weeks to develop following vaccination,” says Dr. Susan J. Rehm, NFID medical director. “If you do get sick and think it may be the flu, contact a healthcare professional right away. There are rapid flu tests available and prescription flu medicines that can help shorten the time you are sick with flu if taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms.”

Rehm suggests people know the Flu F.A.C.T.S. to distinguish symptoms from other circulating viruses, including the common cold:

Fever

Aches

Chills

Tiredness

Sudden onset

“When warnings are issued about the weather, it’s common to stock up on supplies, but when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announce a severe flu season, people may not have the same mindset about taking action,” says Marysol Castro, a nationally recognized weather forecaster. “Flu is a virus which spreads from person to person, much like weather patterns move from state to state. You can learn more about the incidence of flu in your area by using trackers on FluFACTS.com or nfid.org.”

For more information on how to fight flu every season, view the CDC “Take 3” Actions to Fight the Flu (http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm). Get involved and promote healthy behaviors by sharing the NFID #FightFlu memes available at nfid.org/flu-memes on your social media channels, including Facebook and Twitter.

Share this story!
Taking control for healthier aging
(BPT) - As adults age, they often face different health challenges than those experienced during their youth; however, there are several key steps that can...
Turn over a new leaf with your diet this fall to achieve healthy, glowing skin
(BPT) - As schedules pick up and temperatures drop, fall is a natural time for women to rethink their skincare routine....

Related

Top resolutions for women as suggested by doctors
You are ready to start the New Year with an eye towards improving your health. Learn about the top resolutions for women that doctors suggest...
The Future of Genetic Testing: Telling Science Fact from Science Fiction
Are you likely to get heart disease? Is obesity in your future? Your risk of developing many diseases and health conditions is partly written in...
Sugary soft drinks can lead to poor heart health in women
According to studies, increased risk of heart disease and diabetes in women can be traced to drinking too many sugary beverages....
What Makes Your Head Hurt? Tension is the Most Common Culprit
If you suffer from headaches, you’re not alone. Headaches are one of the most common health complaints....
Hidden holiday hazard? Don’t let foot pain dampen holiday spirits
(BPT) - Americans spend just shy of 274 hours a year on shopping – or 45 minutes per day – according to the Bureau of...
Headache Pain: What To Do When Your Head Hurts
Most of us get headaches from time to time. Some are mild....

BE IN THE KNOW

NWPT-Subscribe

Recent Posts

Aging Waters, Jumpin’ Geriatrics and Other Fun for Seniors
Creating and Caring for Shade Gardens
Does Medicare Cover Vision Care and Eye Exams?
How Much Advil (Ibuprofen) Is Too Much?
All In For Avocados

BE IN THE KNOW

NWPT-Subscribe

Recent Posts

Aging Waters, Jumpin’ Geriatrics and Other Fun for Seniors
Creating and Caring for Shade Gardens
Does Medicare Cover Vision Care and Eye Exams?
How Much Advil (Ibuprofen) Is Too Much?
All In For Avocados