Alexander M. Patch Elementary
School
Stuttgart,
Germany
Influenza
All you wanted to know about Influenza (THE FLU) but were afraid to ask….ah choo!!
The term Influenza goes all the way back to 15th Century Italy. The people in those days believed that this disease was caused by the influence of the stars and planets. Did you know that the Flu, often complicated by pneumonia, ranks sixth among leading causes of death in the US. If a particularly virulent strain is coming your way, you may wish to take the Flu shot. Getting the flu vaccine only reduces your chances of the infection if the prevalent viruses are the same as the ones in the vaccine. The Flu vaccine is NO Guarantee against the Flu. Exposure to the elements does not cause the flu, but they do weaken your immune system. The flu is a virus, NOT a chill. There are three main virus strains as work and they change in small ways year after year. According to the Centers for Disease, Control and Prevention, the period between infection and onset of symptoms (incubation period) for influenza is 1 to 4 days. The problem is that a person is contagious 1 day prior to the occurrence of symptoms and 3 to 7 days after the onset of symptoms. So a person is out spreading their germs before they even know they have the flu for sure. There are several proven ways to decrease your chances of being infected with the airborne flu virus, which is spread through coughs and sneezes. During the flu season, try to avoid overheated and crowed rooms. Try also to WASH those hands frequently. And when you use a tissue, FLUSH the tissue rather than letting them pile up in your wastebasket. If you become infected…..Hot chicken soup is a great remedy. It soothes a sore throat and provides the essential nutrients necessary to regain your strength. Once you've got the flu, however, there is NO MAGIC CURE. One must stay well hydrated, get plenty of rest and let time heal what ails you. Lastly BEWARE of Nasal decongestants. They can provide temporary relief of the stuffy nose, but the congestion will probably return after you discontinue the decongestant. Please read ALL labels carefully for the length of their use.