Vital Technologies, Inc.

It’s here. We are in the height of flu season and we need to know what can be done to protect ourselves. Many people choose to get a flu shot, giving themselves a mild dose of the flu to boost their natural immunity to the virus. But beyond a vaccine there is more we can do to save ourselves and others around us.

Many different strains of the flu exist. The seasonal flu which is transmitted from person to person comes in several forms. Most people have some immunity to viruses. Avian flu (bird flu) has been a topic in the news in recent years. This occurs naturally among wild birds. There is a variant, however, that has spread to domestic fowl and in recent cases has been transmitted to humans. The seriousness of the bird flu lies in the fact that, for this variant, humans have no natural immunity and no vaccines exist. Once it begins we may be facing a pandemic flu, an outbreak that scientists say could spread around the globe in just a few months. Statistically, we are long overdue and experts at the CDC say it’s just a matter of time before the next influenza pandemic exists.

So how do you tell the difference between a common cold and the flu? Well, they are both respiratory illnesses both caused by viruses. But they are caused by different types of viruses. Flu symptoms usually come on quickly, within 3-6 hours, and consist of a fever, body aches, dry cough, and extreme tiredness. Cold symptoms are less severe and people experience a stuffy nose, productive cough, tiredness, and body aches. Symptoms of a cold are always going to be less severs then the flu. Still, the only way to be sure may be to see a physician. Because the two illnesses are caused by different viruses they may react differently to the same antibiotics.

You may be asking yourself what you can do to protect yourself and your family. It may be a good idea to start with a vaccination, especially if someone has a weak immune system. The best protection may be practicing good health habits. Exercise, eat a well balanced diet and get enough sleep. If anyone in you household is experiencing flu symptoms, be sure to have them seen by a physician. The flu is spread primarily by airborne droplets that reach the eyes, nose or mouth. It can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth. Using a face mask will help prevent flu-laden droplets from being breathed in by others. Cover your mouth when you sneeze. If a tissue is not available, being sure to wash your hands will help prevent the virus from spreading. Wash or spray the telephone and other surfaces with a disinfectant such as Vital Oxide daily.

There are a number of things we can do to protect us from the flu virus. By following a few simple guidelines we have a better chance warding off illnesses. Apply the knowledge you have and share that knowledge with others. We can all help each other.