Influenza is a seasonal disease that affects millions of people around the world, and most of them recover within a week of time. However, an unfortunate few may die due to seasonal influenza, and seasonal flu epidemics usually spread in late fall and during winter, and the most common symptoms of influenza include: fever Dry cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat and runny nose, and Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aal, consultant pediatrician at Burjeel Hospital, advises mothers to do the following to protect their children from influenza, according to the WebTeb website.
Influenza vaccination
The annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself from influenza and its dangerous complications, at any stage of pregnancy.
It is also necessary for children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years, the elderly, people with chronic conditions, as well as for health care workers.
The flu vaccine should be taken every year. This vaccine protects you and your child from most influenza viruses, from seasonal flu to the most dangerous viruses such as swine flu.
Wash your hands often
Clean hands and wash them regularly with soap and water or a sanitizing gel; It protects against most infections, including influenza. Maintaining hand hygiene is an easy way to protect your health and that of your family.
Sterilization of private belongings
The spaces around you and the items that you use frequently, such as a cell phone or computer and desktop, should be cleaned and sanitized.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
Germs are most likely transmitted to the body through the eyes, nose and mouth, and while you cannot control everything you inhale, you can reduce the risk of infection by keeping your hands away from your face. If you have to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, use a clean tissue or wash your hands first.
Wearing a muzzle
Wearing a mask regularly outside the home not only protects against Covid 19, but also from seasonal flu and other viruses.
Rest and sleep enough hours
The possibility of catching a cold increases if you are tired, as sleep contributes to strengthening the immune system, as an adult needs between 7-8 hours of sleep per day, while children and adolescents need 10 hours of sleep.
Avoid close contact with sick people
Crowded places, such as public transport, schools, nursing homes, and social settings should be avoided as much as possible.
If you are sick, stay home
If you have the flu, being close to others puts them at risk of infection.
This is especially true for people with chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and HIV.
So isolating yourself quickly from others can prevent the spread of flu and save lives.
Visit a doctor
If you have severe symptoms or complications, see your doctor. Know that most anti-viral drugs work better if you take them within 48 hours of infection.
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