Preventions & Cure for Influenza

It's more than a case of the sniffles or the common cold. Influenza can make you feel very ill, quite rapidly with fever, vomiting, and aches and pains. Those who have previously experienced the uncomfortable effects of the flu may wonder how to avoid this nasty virus again. Even if you haven't had a case of influenza, learning flu facts and prevention tips are vital for continued health.

Types

• Due to the antigenic "drift and shift" of viruses, influenza viruses easily infect us. An antigenic drift creates diverse sub-strains our body's immune system does not readily identify. Seasonal flu is an example of the drift in viruses. When a completely new or novel strain of influenza appears, a shift occurs. These new viruses are highly contagious because the body has no proven immunity against a novel virus. H1N1, or swine flu, is such a virus.

Flu Virus Spreading

• Airborne droplets of influenza produced by coughing or sneezing contain high amounts of viruses. Inhaling these or coming in contact with infectious surfaces and touching the mouth, nose or eyes are the primary ways influenza is spread. Flu viruses can live outside the body up to 48 hours, depending on environmental factors like temperature and type of surface. Most researchers believe non-absorbent surfaces, such as metal, plastic or wood, retain living viruses longer than porous items like fabric or paper.

Flu Vaccine

• There is no cure for influenza once you've contracted the virus, other than time, rest and fluids. Most serious symptoms usually begin to diminish in a few days. Typically the body's immune system kicks the flu on its own. However, there are many documented ways to help prevent contracting influenza. The best means to avoid influenza is to obtain a flu shot or vaccine. These are up to 90 percent effective if vaccines match the current circulating strain. If you do come down with flu, in some cases your physician may prescribe anti-viral medications to help shorten the duration of symptoms.

Prevention

• Since flu is spread easily by contact, it's wise to make hand washing a frequent ritual. Some researchers are advocating this process up to ten times a day if you have high exposure to crowds. Use friction, hot water and soap, and pay attention to fingernails, backs of hands and between fingers. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers have also been shown to be very effective. Provide tissues for family members. Dispose of used tissues promptly, as germs may inhabit these. Cover mouth with bent elbow when coughing. Don't share phones, keyboards or personal items with others. Avoid crowds when flu is prevalent in your community. Refrain from touching your mouth, nose or eyes. Try to keep contact with sick individuals to a minimum and wash hands often. Wash dishes in a dishwasher on high heat or with very hot water. Replace toothbrushes frequently or sterilize by placing in boiling water for two minutes during flu season.

Take Care of Yourself

• Get plenty of rest. Eat a balanced diet including five or more daily servings of immune-friendly fruits and vegetables. Some studies show strong benefits in vitamin D for fighting colds and flu. Your body manufactures this vitamin through exposure to sunshine, so try to add 15 minutes a day of outdoor activities, such as walking. Drink vitamin D-fortified skim milk. Vitamin A, another source found in fortified milk, can also prove helpful.