While some people are already getting ready for the holidays, flu season is just around the corner.
Each year in the U.S., an estimated five to 20 percent of us gets the flu. Symptoms of this contagious respiratory illness can range between mild and severe.
So when is it that flu season usually begins and how long does it last?
A: For many years the flu season in the United States has started in December and goes through March. But it is possible to contract the flu outside of this time period.
Influenza viruses change from year to year. Scientists believe there will be three strains of the virus that will most likely circulate during 2008-2009.
How to tell if I have a cold or the flu ?
Both the common cold and flu are among the most common health complaints. Both illnesses are respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses.
Because these illnesses share the same symptoms it can be difficult to tell them apart based on symptoms alone.
Those suffering from colds are more likely to have runny or stuffy noses, productive coughs (wet coughs), slight tiredness and limited body aches.
Colds generally dont result in serious health problems, unlike flu that could develop into pneumonia, bacterial infections or hospitalisation.
Flu symptoms usually come on quickly within 3-6 hours and consist of fever, body aches, dry coughs and extreme tiredness.
How to treat a cold or flu ?
The best time to treat a cold or flu is when you dont have it !
The same remedies that keep colds and flu at bay will also help you to get rid of it.
But before we start to dish out the remedies to treat a cold or flu, here are a few practical things you can do to avoid getting ill.
1. Wash your hands frequently with hot water and soap, especially when you have been in public areas or around someone who has a cold. Colds and flu spread from person to person and are highly contagious.
Avoid touching your eyes and nose. This may transmit respiratory secretions picked up from surfaces or the air.
2. Maintain a healthy balanced diet, packed with your daily recommended fruits and vegetables.
Take supplements and herbal remedies that will strengthen your immune system against colds and flu.
3. Who knows, by following these simple steps and eating the right foods, with a bit of luck and good care, we may all be able to have a cold-and-flu-free season.
Best Wishes for Your Good Health Always,
Raymond
