What to Do If You Get the Flu
It?s that time of the year again ? flu season is in full swing. If the flu bug catches you, observe these tips to help you get better quickly and to minimize the spread of flu to others around you:
Rest
You?re likely to feel exhausted, along with having some aches and pains and possibly even a fever. Head home and get some rest!
Hydrate
Even if you don?t feel like eating, be sure to keep up your intake of fluids so that you don?t become dehydrated.
Treat Your Symptoms
If you have been prescribed an anti-viral medication, be sure and take it on the prescribed schedule and for the prescribed length of time. Set your phone alarm to remind you to take it if you have trouble remembering when the medication is due or if you live alone and don?t have someone who can remind you.
Treat your fever and aches and pains with a fever- or pain-reducing over the counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Stay home until you are fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of such medications.
Limit Contact with Others
When you are sick, confining yourself to your bedroom or a specific area where others can avoid contact with you is best. Flu is very contagious and is spread by droplets in the air after sneezing or coughing.
Practice Good Hygiene
Cough or sneeze into a tissue, not your hands. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water throughout the day to help prevent the spread of the flu to other members in your household. Wipe down surfaces that you touch, such as doorknobs and the remote control, with a clean towel or cleansing wipe to kill any potential germs.
Remember that the flu is a virus and it cannot be treated by antibiotics. Once you have the flu, it simply has to run its course. The above tips will help you recover as quickly as possible. If your symptoms include fever in excess of 103 degrees for more than 24 hours or if you can?t keep anything down, seek prompt medical attention.
Flu vaccination is the best method of preventing the spread of flu and it?s not too late to get your flu shot for this season. For those who are in close contact with someone who has the flu, talk to your healthcare provider about whether or not an antiviral should be taken as a precaution based on this exposure and increased possible risk of getting the flu.
