Seasonal flu is an infectious disease caused by a particularly contagious virus. In addition, it changes from season to season, which makes immunization difficult – if not impossible – from one year to the next. This is why, for example, the vaccine, unlike what happens with other viral diseases, must be repeated every season. Preventing the flu can therefore be extremely helpful.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
The main symptoms are:
- temperature,
- muscle and joint pain,
- nasal congestion,
- headache.
It usually takes 5-7 days and tends to heal spontaneously. However, it is good to pay close attention to any complications in people at risk, such as the elderly, patients with chronic diseases, children.
Preventing the flu: get vaccinated
Get the flu shot: it is especially recommended for pregnant women, over 65, chronically ill and immunosuppressed.
Remember as we have already said that the vaccine must be repeated every year, due to the ability of the virus to mutate every season. The categories at risk have access to the possibility of vaccinating themselves earlier than the others. For the Covid 19 pandemic, the vast majority of experts ask the entire population to get vaccinated against seasonal flu. This is for two essential reasons:
- the symptoms of the two infections are practically superimposable. Better not to get sick with the flu so as not to overload the diagnostic methods;
- in some cases, even seasonal flu requires hospitalization. At this time it is best to leave the beds free for any complications from Covid-19.
Stay away from those who are already sick
Avoid crowded places and close contact with sick people. Encourage colleagues and friends who are ill to stay home to avoid spreading the virus to many more people. It is a very important attitude. The use of the mask in public places and on means of transport should be able to lower the risk of getting the flu.
Prevent the flu: ventilate the rooms
Many remain closed at home with colds and flu without ever opening the window, frightened by the possible blow of air. It is a gross error. Change the air in the rooms you stay in regularly and change the linen frequently. This recommendation becomes even more important in offices and schools, where several people are present at the same time.
Prevent the flu: clean your hands
Wash your hands often with soap and water, alcohol gels, or disinfectant wipes. Here is the guide to clean your hands properly. Remember that you have to rub every part of your hands for at least twenty seconds.
Don’t touch yourself with dirty hands
Avoid bringing unclean hands into contact with eyes, nose and mouth. This is even more true when you are out and about and haven’t washed your hands. Pay close attention.
Prevent the flu: throw away your dirty handkerchiefs
Cover your nose and mouth with a paper tissue when you cough and sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash, avoiding keeping it in bags, pockets or sleeves.
Pay attention to the diet to strengthen the immune system
Having a strong immune system is also helpful to prevent flu. Nutrition is very important. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables which contain lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Scientific research has shown that the propolis it can be an excellent ally in trying to lower the risk of getting the flu. There are several natural remedies to boost the immune system.
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