Three Things You Can Do to Protect Against the Flu

Yes, it’s the beginning of the school year and there are ball games and practices, homework and scout meetings, church activities and 4-H. Who has the time to haul the whole family to get immunized against seasonal influenza?

 

The truth is that it will take far less time to get your immunizations than it will to recover if the flu finds its way into your household.

Did you know that it takes most people 10 – 14 days to fully recover from the flu? Thirty minutes vs. two weeks. Kind of a no-brainer, right?

Did you also know that since the CDC began tracking this data in the flu season of 1976 to 1977, the range of annual flu-associated deaths is as low as 3,000 and as high as 49,000 over these past forty years?

Still willing to take your chances?

Here’s what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/preventing.htm

Take the time to get a flu vaccine. The first immunization clinic is scheduled for Sept. 23. Click here to find a clinic location, date, and time that work for you.  Remember, those between six months and 49 years without serious health complications are eligible for FluMist – the stuff that goes in the nose, not an injection. This makes it much easier to get the kids to go!

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs. Keep hands clean. Don’t share glasses and silverware. Sneeze into your elbow. Carry hand-sanitizer and use it often, especially in public areas. If you are sick, stay home for 24-hours until symptoms are gone without the use of medication. Get plenty of rest, exercise, and make healthy food choices. Stay well.

The CDC is recommending that everyone age six