I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for MedImmune Specialty Care. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.
Flu season can run from October to May. So, right now, flu season is upon us, but you do not have to live in fear. Catching the flu can be prevented and there are simple steps and precautions that you can take to help ensure that your family stays healthy and free of flu symptoms this season.
Tips To Prevent Catching The Flu
1. Get the flu shot.
2. Wash hands frequently with antibacterial soap and warm to hot water.
3. Stay away from people who are sick.
4. Avoid crowded places when possible during cold and flu season.
5. Take vitamins, especially Vitamin C.
Cold And Flu Symptoms: What To Do Next
1. If you have cold or flu symptoms, make sure to sneeze and cough into tissues so that you don’t spread the illness.
2. Stay home and rest if at all possible.
3. Seek medical attention if your cold lasts more than a few days or if you think you have the flu.
Flu Facts
Did you know that the flu can live on surfaces for up to 8 hours? That is why it is so important to clean your house thoroughly, especially when there is someone sick in the home. Since the virus is always changing, humans can not grow immune to the flu. That is why it is important to get vaccinated for the flu yearly. This is especially important for children, the elderly, people with breathing problems and those with compromised immune systems. Since children’s immune systems are not fully developed, they catch the flu easier than healthy adults and they have a harder time fighting it off. That is why it is vitally important to vaccinate children. Prevention is key.
There are tons of places nationwide where you can get a flu shot. Be sure to check out this list to find where to get a flu shot near you.
If you would like to learn more ways to keep your family safe from colds and the flu this winter, be sure to check out Elizabeth Pantley’s ebooklet, “A Parent’s Guide to Flu Season.”
View Comments (22)
Aren't flu facts scary?! It seems like once you catch something, it is really hard to get rid of it. My daughter has low immunity so we try to be really careful. Washing your hands and being aware are two big things to staying healthy. Eat your fruits and veggies and get rest. Thanks for the chart on flu/cold symptoms. It can be really hard to tell which one you have. Both make you feel yucky. Stay well.
Definitely some great tips. We always encourage the kids to stay as healthy as they can.
we do lots of vitamins, hand washing, and fresh air. my mom always believed it keeps us healthier!
Great tips! We had our flu shots. We could get better about hand washing though. My little boy acts like it is such a chore to wash hands.
There are certain people in my house who act like that, too. They are good about washing their hands when using the bathroom {it least I can hear water running, lol}, but when coughing or cooking...I kind of have to give gentle reminders on occasion.
I will be on the look out for the symptoms, this is good to know./
We do hand washing, vitamin C and tons of fresh air to keep the flu symptoms at bay.
Great tips. I have still never gotten a flu shot in my life, though. They kind of freak me out. This chart is super helpful with cold vs. flu symptoms!!!
We have already had it this year...it was not fun! We will do the shot next year for sure!
Oh no, sorry to hear that. I guess at least you got it over with before the holidays.
I have never gotten a flu sho but I make sure that my daughter gets one.
I really appreciate the tips, considering I seem to be coming down with something at the moment.
Oh no! I hope you are feeling much better really soon. :)