Early Treatment for the Flu

Flu.gov indicates that seasonal flu outbreaks tend to occur between the late fall and early spring. The University of Maryland Medical Center adds that early treatment can shorten the duration of the flu by one day.

Is Medical Treatment Necessary?

• The University of Maryland Medical Center says that flu treatment is usually not necessary, though treatment should be taken if you: are younger than 2 or older than 50, are more than three months pregnant, live in a long-term care facility, have a weak immune system, or have a chronic medical condition such as diabetes.

Why is Early Treatment Important?

• According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, treatment for the flu is only effective if it begins early. It goes on to say that in the case of a cold, flu remedies are ineffective.

Home Treatment

• If you are not high-risk, treat your flu at home. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that you should get plenty of rest; drink lots of fluids; avoid aspirin, alcohol, and tobacco; and avoid unnecessary antibiotics.

Vaccination

• Flu.gov says that even though most people have a natural immunity to the seasonal flu, a vaccine is available. The seasonal vaccine does not include special strains, such as the H1N1 vaccine, though it can be taken separately.

Prevention

• Flu.gov recommends that to prevent contracting the flu, you should cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough; wash your hands often; avoid contact with sick people; and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.