What is the Flu? Influenza is commonly known as the flu. Usually infected through the air by coughing or sneezing, this infectious virus can last as long as a week. By using disinfectants and detergents, these virus’ can often be made inactive.
As snow falls on much of the Unite States, with cold weather comes flu season. Flu season is estimated to be from November through March. With good reason, most Americans aren’t out of the woods yet and still need to monitor their health as well as possibly get their flu shot.
The first step to take every Flu Season is to head out and get your flu shot. This can save you from not only getting the flu, but all the side effects that go with this infectious virus. For states like Florida where the flu season really begins to peak in late January and February and then continues into March, it is vital, especially for the snow birds to head out and get their flu vaccine.
Why Get a Flu Shot?
Prevent a flu related death.
Save lives from possibly dying.
Prevent a possibly severe illness.
Flu Trends across the U.S
States with Moderate Flu Activity
Fortunately, the Google Flu Trends remain moderate to low across the country for flu. That means only a few states are even classified as moderate. These States include: Florida, Alaska, Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Main.
The rest of the country remains a low activity. That is good news for most of the country. Still, keeping healthy during the flu season remains important; some ways to do this include: drink lots of water, drink orange juice, take your vitamins, exercise, and eat three balanced meals.
Tips to Staying Healthy During Flu Season
1. Avoid close contact with others. Remind your children not to get close to the other children while on the playground. This will help protect them from possibly getting close to another sick child.
2.If you or your child is sick, stay home. Not only will you prevent others from getting sick, you will give your body time to recuperate from the sickness.
3.Use your hand to cover your mouth and nose.This will keep others from getting sick.
4. Wash your hands. And often! This will not only help you to stay healthy, but will keep your germs from spreading to others.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Influenza
http://www.google.org/flutrends/
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm
