Six tips to prevent and treat colds and flu
It’s that time of year when everyone seems to have a cough or sniffle, but getting sick isn’t inevitable. In fact, staying healthy just takes a little bit of extra vigilance, says Mark Gernerd, M.D., a physician at Temple ReadyCare in Fort Washington. Try these strategies to fend off colds and flu, and feel better faster if you do get sick.
1. Scrub for 20 Seconds
When someone with a cold or the flu coughs or sneezes, germs enter the air and land on things people frequently touch, like doorknobs or faucet handles. When someone else touches those things, the germs will end up on his or her hands. It may sound too simple, but washing your hands often is one of the best ways to keep yourself from getting sick. Always wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Be sure to scrub your fingertips and fingernails. “Don’t just quickly rub your palms together,” Dr. Gernerd says.
2. Don’t Skip the Flu Shot
Getting an annual flu shot is essential. It’s designed to protect you from what health experts believe will be the most common strains of the virus each flu season. You won’t get the flu from the shot, Dr. Gernerd says. That’s a big misconception. But it can take up to two weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective, so the sooner you get it, the better. Is it a 100% guarantee that you won’t get the flu? No, but it does make the flu milder if you do get sick.
3. Ask About Pneumonia
In infants, adults 65 and older, and anyone with a weakened immune system, flu can take a serious turn and lead to pneumonia. Ask your doctor if you or your loved one should get a pneumonia shot. It can be given at the same time as the flu shot, and you typically only need one every five to ten years.
4. Know the Symptoms
Colds come on gradually, and symptoms can be subtle. They include sore throat, stuffy nose, sneezing, and coughing. Flu symptoms come on suddenly and are typically more severe. They include fever, chills, aches, and fatigue.
5. Rest to Recover
If you have a cold, take time to rest, and drink plenty of fluids. If you have a fever, definitely try to stay home. “Many people feel pressure to go to work with a cold,” Dr. Gernerd says. “But you’re not as productive, and you’re putting your coworkers at risk.” If you don’t feel better after ten days, see your doctor.
6. Call Your Doctor
If you think you have the flu, call your doctor as soon as possible. An antiviral prescription medication, like Tamiflu®, can shorten the duration of symptoms if taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms, Dr. Gernerd says. As with a cold, it’s a good idea to rest, drink fluids, and stay home if you can.
The Right Way to Cover Your Mouth
Are you still using your hand to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze? It turns out that coughing or sneezing into your elbow is a better idea. Your arm provides a bigger “fence” around your nose and mouth, and you won’t spread germs from your hands as easily.
