Is The Flu Just A Seasonal Illness?

Is The Flu Just A Seasonal Illness?

The flu, medically termed influenza, kills 36,000 people in the United States every year. Statistics report that it could be in the hundreds of thousands world wide. The illness, a viral infection, can bring about respiratory problems, muscle ache, sore throat, a high fever, headaches, and nasal congestion. The evidence is clear that this virus cannot, and shouldn't be taken lightly.
The flu spreads itself in a variety of ways. Being a viral infection, it infects individuals generally through the secretions of an infected person. The infected person should avoid contact with other people. Their saliva and mucus are rampant with the virus and coughing and sneezing are definite ways that the virus could spread. Healthy people should avoid contact with an infected person as well.

What Is "The Flu Season" and Vaccines For The Flu?

Generally the peak for occurrences of the flu is between the months of November and April. These being the winter months, extra care should be taken during this time. Dubbed "The Flu Season", it is during this time that the majority of influenza instances occur. The cold weather, combined with inactivity, bring most people to have lowered resistance. The infectious nature of the virus causes it to spread easily as people are more prone to catching it. Soon, a large portion of the population has been exposed and the "flu season" cycle continues once again.

Preparedness is the best defense against the coming flu season. One definite step toward preventing the disease is to get an annual flu shot. There are two forms of flu vaccine. The first being the common flu shot, usually administered by a shot in the arm. The second is a nasal spray form that is misted into the nasal cavity. Which you choose to have administered is up to you, but it is becoming more evident that getting a flu vaccination is vital to your health during this season. Vaccination also can aide in preventing the spread of the flu as less people will contract and spread it.

You should get your flu vaccination before flu season starts. The vaccine takes roughly two weeks to build it's effectiveness against the flu virus. You should give ample time before November to stay protected. Even if you forget to plan ahead, it's not too late to receive a flu vaccination. Many workplaces offer the opportunity to get an annual vaccination, as this has potential to reduce their overall sick time from their staff. This is a good opportunity to get your vaccination.

But Can I get The Flu At Other Times Of The Year?

The flu can be contracted other times of the year. Despite being more rampant during the winter months, it is possible to catch it during other seasons. Essentially, individuals' immune systems are more effective at this time of year, thus the level of infection does drop. With the risk smaller during the Spring and Summer months, caution should be taken to avoid the virus even then. An annual flu shot is a good first step, but other measures should be taken too. Healthy living, eating right, and exercise are definitely recommended . Taking this course of action will reduce your risk of getting the flu and make it's spread lessen.