We're well into this years flu season and all around us our colleagues, cousins and 'quaintances are coughing, sneezing and contaminating everything they touch. For most of us the 'flu' is a seasonal nuisance that causes minor discomfort and moderate inconvenience. For others though, this virus will be their cause of death. The range of signs and symptoms are partly to blame for the laissez-faire attitude many people have about preventing the flu in their homes, schools and workplaces. For those with children you need to know the signs of influenza that are indicators of a serious concern and for which you should seek medical assistance immediately.
Rapid or difficulty breathing
Bluish skin color
Dehydration
Persistent sleepiness
High fever with or without cough
Fever with a rash
In adults the danger signs include;
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Chest pain or pressure
Abdominal pain
Acute dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
Considering that an otherwise healthy person can start spreading the virus before they experience any symptoms it is easy to see how this illness can hitch a ride into any home, workplace or institution. Public health experts agree that the best way to prevent the flu is to get the vaccine annually and to wash your hands often. Staying home when you're sick is also important to preventing the spread of the virus. Most experts agree that you should remain at home until you have been free of a fever for at least 24 hours and this is why everyone should have a 'flu kit' in their medicine cabinet.
What's in your kit will vary but it should include symptom relief medications as well as disinfecting and isolation supplies. Those who become ill should be isolated from the rest of the family, ideally with a washroom set-aside for their use only. Those providing care should take precautions to protect themselves from the virus by wearing a mask and washing their hands after every contact, at the very least have hand sanitizer nearby.
As I write this the world is focused on a potentially deadly novel coronavirus originating in China yet we've let our guard down when it comes to the potentially deadly virus that is right outside our door. #GetTheShot #PreventTheFlu
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