Most Effective Weapon Against the Flu

The flu is a viral disease that affects 10 to 20 percent of the U.S. population annually. The most effective weapon against the disease is to get vaccinated. However, vaccine shortages sometimes mean you need to rely on other effective weapons to prevent the flu. In this case, wash your hands, practice good hygiene and employ healthy habits.

Prevention

• Get vaccinated if you are at high risk and vaccine is available. Take other precautions as well. Don't smoke and avoid secondhand smoke. Drink plenty of water, at least eight cups each day. This will keep your body hydrated and functioning at its best. Avoid alcohol. Exercise at least three or four days each week. It will boost your immune system and help fight off disease. Get plenty of rest and reduce stress. Not getting enough sleep and high stress can hinder your body's immune system function and its ability to fight off infections. Eat five to nine servings of vegetables and fruits each day. These foods contain antioxidants and vitamins that can help stave off infection.

  Use a tissue whenever you sneeze or cough and dispose of it immediately afterward and wash your hands. Avoid people who appear sick. If you are sick, stay home. You're contagious before symptoms ever show up and for three to five days after you show symptoms.

Hygiene

• Wash your hands frequently. This is the number-one way to prevent flu other than vaccines. When you wash your hands, do so properly. Instead of just rinsing your hands briefly under running water,use soap and wash for about 20 seconds. Some flu viruses can live for up to two hours on surfaces such as desks, computer keyboards, door knobs and telephones. Wipe down any shared surfaces with soap and water. Avoid touching your face. Your eyes, mouth and nose are entry points for viruses.

Fighting the Flu

• If you do get sick, you can ease your discomfort even though the flue has no cure. Take aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve fever, headaches and muscle aches. Try saline nose drops or nasal decongestants. Read all labels and use medications only as necessary.

  Raise your home's humidity, either with a humidifier or by sitting in a bathroom with a hot shower on. Sleep with your head elevated. Gargling with salt water or sucking on hard candy will help a sore throat. Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Avoid smoky environments.

  Don't bother with antibiotics. They treat bacterial infections and don't work on the flu. Antiviral medications lessen the flu's severity and length, but they work only if you take them within two days of infection.