Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Dr. Myron Kwan, Board-Certified Internal Medicine Specialist at Millennium Physician Group
As we approach winter, flu season is upon us. The holidays are a time for family, friends, joy, and celebration. Unfortunately, it is also the time of year when flu activity tends to peak. Understanding the cause of the flu, how it spreads, and how to protect yourself and your family is essential to staying healthy during this time of year.
At Millennium Physician Group, we believe in the importance of flu prevention and educating our patients on how to stay healthy all year round. Whether you are thinking about getting a flu shot, trying to understand your symptoms, or looking for ways to avoid the flu, here’s what you need to know.
What is the Flu and How Does it Spread?
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The disease can infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs, causing a range of mild to severe symptoms that typically come on suddenly. For some people, the flu can be debilitating, leading to serious complications and even death.
The flu spreads mainly through minuscule droplets released when someone infected coughs, sneezes, or speaks. These droplets can then land in the mouths or noses of people nearby, with close contact as a primary method of transmission. Flu viruses can also survive on surfaces for 24 to 48 hours. This means touching a contaminated surface and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes is a possible method of infection.
Flu Prevention Matters
Flu season typically peaks between December and February, but it is possible to have outbreaks anytime during the year. Staying current on flu cases in your community can help you know if and when you should get your flu vaccine. Each year, the vaccine is created to protect against the most common strains of influenza expected during that particular flu season.
Even if you’ve had the flu or received a flu shot before, it’s crucial to get vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. It’s important to note that the flu shot does not stop you from getting the flu. If you do get the flu after being vaccinated, it can reduce the severity of symptoms and the duration of the illness.
Additional flu prevention tips include:
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to avoid spreading germs.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home if you’re not feeling well.
• Avoid touching your face and disinfect solid surfaces that may carry germs, like your cell phone.
What to Watch For: Common Flu Symptoms
While anyone can get the flu, certain groups are at higher risk for developing serious flu-related complications. This includes children under 5 years old and adults 65 years and older, as well as pregnant women and people with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. Additionally, people with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease should take preventative measures during flu season. If any high-risk individuals develop flu symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Additional flu prevention tips include:
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to avoid spreading germs.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home if you’re not feeling well.
• Avoid touching your face and disinfect solid surfaces that may carry germs, like your cell phone.
What to Watch For: Common Flu Symptoms
While anyone can get the flu, certain groups are at higher risk for developing serious flu-related complications. This includes children under 5 years old and adults 65 years and older, as well as pregnant women and people with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. Additionally, people with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease should take preventative measures during flu season. If any high-risk individuals develop flu symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Flu symptoms can seem like they appear out of nowhere and include:
• Fever or Chills (although not everyone experiences a fever)
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and diarrhea (commonly in children)
If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor about treatment and take steps to prevent spreading the disease.
What to Do if You Get Sick
Flu symptoms can be similar to the common cold. While both are respiratory illnesses, the flu is more likely to cause fever, body aches, fatigue, and severe respiratory symptoms. Colds are usually milder with fewer severe symptoms.
If you’re unsure whether you have the flu or cold, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend you get tested or prescribe antiviral medications. Antiviral medications are only available as a prescription and may reduce the severity and length of symptoms and prevent serious complications. Rest and drinking plenty of fluids can also help you recover quickly.
Take Control of Your Health with Millennium Physician Group
Flu season can bring about serious health problems, but by being aware and practicing preventative measures, you can better protect yourself and your family.
If you have questions or concerns about flu prevention and how you can take control of your health, Millennium Physician Group is here to help guide you. Reach out anytime, and we can work together to create a plan that prioritizes your health.
Myron Kwan, MD
5741 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 250
Sarasota, FL 34233
941.552.8808 | MillenniumPhysician.com
