Flu season coughs up health awareness

by Jennifer Dodd
Staff Writer

With winter quickly approaching, it is about that time when everyone is getting sick or fears that they will be the next victim of that tiny, yet evil, three lettered word: the flu.

Young adults and those who are relatively healthy often do not realize how serious a case of the flu can be.

Although the flu is usually not dangerous, in a small percentage of cases, bacterial infections or serious pneumonia can result from the flu.

Yearly flu shots are recommended for adults 65-years-old or older, those with a chronic medical condition and for women who are at least 3 months pregnant.

However, not many people are aware that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also recommends a flu vaccine for anyone who wishes to reduce their chances of getting the flu.

The flu vaccine is especially recommended for those living in dormitories or other crowded conditions to prevent outbreaks.

The flu is responsible for more than 69 million work/school days lost in the United States every year, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.

The flu is a virus that infects the lining of the tubes that carry air to the lungs.

In many cases, the flu can be mistaken for a bad cold.

Flu symptoms include weakness, headache, muscle aches, fever and chills.

The flu vaccine reduces the chances of getting the flu by 75 percent.

It is necessary to get the vaccine annually. This is because the flu virus mutates often and there are many different strains so the vaccine varies every year.

The risks of the flu vaccine are very small, but some people have reported soreness or redness where the shot was given.

A mild fever was also mentioned as a reaction to the shot.

If these problems occur, they usually last only one or two days.

If you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to eggs or to a previous dose of the flu vaccine, have a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome(GBS) or are sick at the time of the shot, you should talk with a doctor beforehand.

In addition to getting a flu shot, there are other preventative measures that can be taken to avoid the flu.

Washing your hands often, not smoking and keeping in good health are all helpful in minimizing your chances of getting the flu.

If you are one of the unlucky ones plagued with the flu this year, it is important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of clear fluids.

Taking aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen will reduce pain and fever. Also see your health care provider as soon as possible.

The flu is most prevalent in December and January, so the time to get the vaccine is now.

"We have only seen about ten students so far this year," said Maureen Pray, L.V.N.

The vaccine is being offered at the ULV Health Center at 1950 3rd Street for $8 until Dec. 6.