FALL BRINGS FLU SEASON:
WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Ever felt like a dump truck just dropped its load on you? As the fall and winter months approach, tis the season for indoor gatherings, but watch out for nasty viruses that are easily spread when in confined spaces.

Colds and influenza (the flu) are both respiratory infections caused by viruses. Both share similar symptoms, but there are some distinctions. Colds come on slowly starting with scratchy throat, followed by sneezes, a runny nose and may produce mild fevers.

You are likely to know the exact day that you get the flu. Typically, you will experience an abrupt onset of symptoms such as fever of up to 104 F, headache, extreme tiredness, sore throat, dry cough, muscle aches, runny or stuffy nose. Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can also occur, though more common in children. Even worse, influenza can lead to pneumonia or even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 150,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications and about 36,000 people die from flu.

What can you do?

Realize there is no vaccine for the common cold.Fortunately for the flu, there is a vaccine.The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccination each fall. October or November is the best time to get vaccinated, but getting vaccinated in December or even later can still be beneficial.Flu season can begin as early as October and as late as May.

A few practices may help you escape the cold and flu season untouched. These include avoiding close contact with infected people, do not share eating or drinking utensils, wash your hands, develop healthy habits--a nutritious diet, exercise and sleep, all of which can help keep your immune system up to par.

If you catch a cold anyway, plenty of rest and fluids and wise use of over-the-counter medications are the best ways to fight it. Warm salt water gargles can help relieve a sore throat. Soup, juice and non-caffeinated drinks can help to keep you hydrated.

As for the flu, new antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu may shorten the course if recognized and treated within 48 hours of the start of symptoms.Contact your family physician immediately.

Yes, colds and the flu can be miserable, but you can take steps to rid yourself of these nasty bugs and get back to the activities of the season.

Dr. Joan Walker a Family Medicine physician in Alexandria. She is certified by the American Board of Family Practice, Diplomate.