MyWellness
Influenza
August 2017
Know more about Influenza and learn how to protect yourself
About Influenza
  • What is the flu?

    Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death.

  • Who is at high risk?

    Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, such as asthma, are at high risk for serious flu complications.

  • Transmission
    Respiratory transmission occurs mainly by droplets disseminated by unprotected coughs and sneezes. Short-distance airborne transmission of influenza viruses may occur, particularly in crowded enclosed spaces. Hand contamination and direct inoculation of virus is another possible source of transmission.

Symptoms of Influenza
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle/body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
How can you protect yourself
  • Wash

    Frequent handwashing helps prevent getting the flu and slows its spread.

  • Vaccination

    The first and most important step in preventing the flu is getting a vaccination.

  • Distance

    Stay away from crowds, closed crowded spaces, and people who have the flu.

  • Cover

    Cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent spreading the flu.

How to boost your immune system against flu
  • Strengthen your gut

    70% of your immune system is in the gut. Probiotics help keep your gut healthy. Fermented foods, such as unpasteurized sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir support bacterial health in your gut.

  • Avoid processed foods

    Instead of processed foods increase intake of food with anti-inflammatory properties — this can be found in nutrient-dense food such as dark leafy greens, berries, salmon, and sweet potatoes.

  • Load up on
    Zinc

    Zinc can help curb cold symptoms fast. Pumpkin seeds, spinach, oysters, nuts, and beans, can help shorten the duration of a cold by a few days due to their immune-boosting effects.

  • Exercise and sleep

    Exercise is an immune-booster and it can be helpful if you feel well enough to do it. However, don’t sacrifice sleep in order to exercise; getting enough sleep is a key component.