As winter comes, so does flu season.
For seniors, the flu is more than just an inconvenience. The CDC has said that between 2010 and 2016 there were 12,000 – 56,000 deaths annually due to flu, with 70 to 85% of those being seniors.
This blog post will talk about how seniors can spot symptoms of the flu and ways to keep themselves healthy during the winter period.
What is The Flu and How Does it Spread?
The flu, short for influenza, is a highly contagious virus that infects not only humans but animals as well. The three different strains of flu (Influenza A, Influenza B, and Influenza C) can rapidly spread around the world via sick birds.
You get the flu by ingesting or inhaling the virus that is left behind by others who are suffering from the flu.
Ways That You Come in Contact With Flu Include:
- Breathing in the virus
- Kissing
- Touching surfaces or objects with the flu virus
Symptoms of the Flu
The flu may start with the symptoms of a common cold with symptoms including a sore throat, cough and runny nose. It may then progress further into a fever with chills and stomach issues.
If you notice any friends or family starting to show signs of the flu, it is best to avoid them until they are better. A person who has the flu will be considered contagious for 5-7 days after the first display of symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of the Seasonal Flu Include:
- Coughing Fits
- Runny Nose
- Fever Over 100.4F
- Achey Muscles
- Weakness
- Chills and Sweats
- Stomach Issues (Vomiting, Diarrhea)
Hospitalization Risks for Seniors Who Contract The Flu
Nobody likes getting the flu, but it is particularly important for seniors to protect themselves. Contracting the flu weakens the immune system, which puts seniors at risk of contracting serious complications that could lead to hospitalization or death.
Potential Complications For Seniors of the Flu Include:
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Sinus or Ear Infection
- Dehydration
- Heart Failure
How To Keep Yourself Protected Against The Flu
There is no cure for the flu, but there are steps you can take to prevent contracting it at all. Be sure to follow these tips and consult your doctor for advice specific to your medical needs.
Get a Seasonal Flu Shot
Getting a flu shot is one of your best bets to avoid contracting the flu.
The CDC has stated that the flu vaccine and stronger Fluzone High-Dose are safe for seniors, with only minor side effects reported. The CDC has also stated that seniors who get a flu shot are 57% less likely to be hospitalized due to flu than non-vaccinated people.
In the United States, flu season tends to fall between the fall and spring months, and seniors should get the seasonal flu shot as soon as it becomes available.
Avoid Crowds
Being in crowded areas is a sure way to come into contact with all sorts of illnesses. When flu season begins, you may want to avoid going to crowded areas such as malls or markets.
Wash Your Hands Often
The flu virus can live on a hard surface for 24 hours. During flu season it’s a good practice to wash your hands as often as possible to avoid inhaling or ingesting any of the virus you might have touched.
Don’t Touch Your Face
Flu cannot be contracted through the skin, only through ingestion. Along with washing your hands, be sure to avoid touching your face to avoid the virus entering through your mouth or nose.
Get Vaccines For Other Illnesses
If you do contract the flu, you don’t want to end up suffering from a complication such as pneumonia. Along with the flu shot, you should talk to your doctor about vaccines for other illnesses.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking lots of water will keep your mucus in your nasal passages moist to help trap germs before they enter your respiratory system.
Proper Nutrition and Vitamin C
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to keep the immune system strong and avoid the flu. Ensure that you eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, and supplement your diet with vitamin C to boost your immunity. Your doctor may recommend you try other supplements as well.
If You Are Sick or Concerned About Flu, Talk to Your Doctor
You should not put off any preparation to prevent getting the flu. If you are concerned about getting sick this season or are experiencing symptoms, visit your doctor. Early identification and treatment can prevent the flu from spreading or leading to other health complications.