We are approaching the flu season with elementary schools starting to report cases. Did
you know that adults may be infectious from the day before signs and symptoms occur
through 5 days after illness? Well children shed the virus several days prior to the
illness and can be infectious for 10 or more days!!! Have I convinced you to get the
vaccination yet?
To prevent Influenza, your first line of defense is the Flu Vaccination. The
vaccination contains both A and B viruses. The (TIV) shot contains killed viruses and the
(LAIV) intranasal route contains live viruses. The TIV may be used for any person 6 months
or older. The LAIV is recommended for the individuals who are pregnant, asthma, chronic
conditions and a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome.
So you can't tell me you are afraid of needles when they can put it up your nose!! Yes
you may have a minor side effect from the vaccinations but it is nothing like they
symptoms of the flu.
So What Else Can I
Do to Keep from Getting the Flu?
Tips to Enhance an Individual's Immune System to Resist Influenze:
- annual flu vaccine
- stay physically active
- get plenty of sleep
- eat nutritious foods
- drink plenty of water and non-dyhrating fluids
- frequent hand washing
- avoid large, crowded places during flu outbreaks
As a reminder: ips to Control the spread of flu in the school setting
- FREQUENT HAND WASHING
- cover mouth and nose with a tissue, use sleeve if tissue not available
- avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth
- avoid sharing drinks, cups or other eating utensils
- clean contaminated surfaces, per school policy, often and quickly as possible after
contaminated
Why Do I Need a Flu Shot?