Summarize the following:
One of the single best steps you can take to avoid a flu infection is to get an annual flu vaccine. This yearly vaccine will protect you against several different strains that medical experts expect to be prevalent during the coming flu season. You can get a flu vaccine at your doctor’s office or even most local pharmacies. Unfortunately, flu vaccines don’t protect against the common cold, and they don’t guarantee protection against all flu strains, but they still significantly reduce your risk of infection. Frequently washing your hands with warm, soapy water is the best way to kill cold and flu germs. If you’re sick, it’ll help you not to spread the virus, and it’ll help you avoid contracting the virus if you’re not already sick. Items that directly contact your mouth (such as cups and utensils) are a direct method of transmission for the cold and flu virus. Sharing these items with a sick person is a sure way to contract the illness. If you’re sick, avoid sharing them with others as well to decrease their chances of getting sick. For young children, this also means cleaning toys, pacifiers, and similar items often since they regularly end up in the child’s mouth. Coughing and sneezing sends particles of the virus into the air to infect other people. It’s one of the leading ways that people contract cold and flu viruses. You should cover your mouth any time you cough or sneeze. Experts advise covering your mouth with your sleeve or your elbow instead of your hands. If you must use your hands, wash them well with warm, soapy water afterward. Studies have shown that taking vitamin C once you’re already sick has a minimal effect on the virus. However, taking vitamin C before the onset of a cold or flu virus may help shorten the duration of your illness. By staying up on your vitamin C requirement, you may help reduce the length of time you’re sick. If you are healthy but must be around a person with the flu, then you can also take an antiviral medication that decreases your risk of infection. Taken right away, antiviral drugs can reduce your risk between 70 and 90 percent. These drugs come in the form of pills, liquids, or inhalers and require a prescription. Common options include oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), amantadine (Symmetrel), and rimantadine (Flumadine).
Get a flu vaccine. Wash your hands often. Do not share cups or utensils. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Take vitamin C supplements. Take an antiviral medication.