The season is upon us folks and that means it is time to brush up on our cold and flu facts. Here are some of my favorites!
1. The common cold and the flu are caused by different viruses and the symptoms of the flu are much more intense.
2. The flu can lead to serious complication and even death, especially in vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly and those who have other medical problems such as asthma, diabetes or have a compromised immune system.
3. Symptoms of the common cold include a runny or stuffy nose but generally, life goes on, but the flu is marked by high fever, generalized body aches, headache, fatigue, and sore throat and you will want to stay in bed.
4. The “flu shot” or influenza vaccine is given to prevent the spread of the flu in our communities, especially to vulnerable populations. It is recommended for all people over 6 months old, except for those who have a contraindication to the flu vaccine. If you have an allergy to eggs, it is still recommended you get the vaccine, but speak with your doctor first.
5. The CDC, or Centers for Disease Control, recommends treatment with anti-viral medications for people with the flu who are a high risk of death or serious illness from the flu.
6. In the 2017-2018 season, the CDC has recommended against using the nasal spray flu vaccine. Each year the vaccine is updated to fight viruses known to be actively circulating.
7. The CDC reminds us that in 2017, a study in the journal Pediatrics showed that flu vaccination significantly reduced a child’s risk of dying from influenza.
8. The CDC recommends you get the flu vaccine before the end of the October before it spreads in the community. Protection from the virus doesn’t develop for two weeks until after you get the vaccine.
Happy Sunday evening Asheville!