FIGHT THE FLU

By Mariam Nihal It’s been in the air sure but that’s not the only reason you keep getting the flu. If you have noticed anything different this year, its that, its reoccurring in most cases and lasts longer. Influenza (flu) is a contagious disease that can go beyond just a minor sinus infection or bad cold. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year, millions of people get sick, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized, and thousands die from flu. In short, don’t take it lightly. You can use home remedies but also know that prevention and care go hand in hand. Sometimes sticking to habits is another way of letting it get worse.  “Usually I would be okay in about five days to a week and this time its been going on for almost a month. I am sure everyone is different but most of my friends and cousins have had the same issue. I should have gotten the shot I have learned now and hope everyone is careful during the season,” Hafsa Abdullah, a college student told Saudi Gazette. Hygiene, cleanliness and vaccine are essential. If you have a fever and the symptoms of a flu start to appear then rest, don’t go out and about resuming stressful daily chores and activities. Go see a doctor. Drink plenty of fluids, a lot of water, honey and ginger infused tea. Take care of your cough and treat your fever, don’t let it run high. Use steam to open up blocked pores, breathe in steam and use a soothing balm like Vicks.  People with sinus infections know that air travel can be painful, so avoid it if you can or consult your doctor at least.  Getting your flu shot soon is important because it can take a while for  antibodies to be produced to provide maximum protection. Remember that an annual influenza vaccination can prevent the infection or death caused by conventional or seasonal influenza.