Shilpa S. Davé, D.O.

Influenza, more commonly known as the "flu," is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. This respiratory illness usually causes a sudden onset of symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, and a cough. A person is contagious one day before getting symptoms, and up to five days after getting sick.

Although most healthy people recover from the flu without complications, older or younger children, persons with chronic health conditions, and tobacco users can develop complications such as pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, or dehydration from the flu. The flu can be detected by a test, usually a nasal swab, if tested within the first few days of experiencing symptoms.

Treatment of the flu usually involves treating your symptoms as they occur. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, take acetaminophen for fever and body aches, and avoid alcohol or tobacco use. A prescription antiviral medication is available for treatment of the flu, and can shorten the course of the illness by one or two days. It is most effective if taken within the first two days of illness. Therefore, if you begin experiencing symptoms, seek medical care early.

The best way to protect yourself against the flu is to get a flu vaccination. Your doctor's office will let you know if you qualify as well as when they will start giving the vaccinations. It is best to get vaccinated in October or November, but the vaccination can still offer protection if received in December, as flu season can last into May of the following year. Getting a flu shot too early could leave you without protection through the entire flu season. It usually takes two weeks for your body to develop the antibodies needed to protect you against influenza. Full immunity occurs about four weeks after receiving the shot, and lasts for about five months.

In addition to getting a flu shot, good health habits play an important part in protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Wash your hands frequently to limit the spreading of germs. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as this is how germs spread and enter your body. Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and make sure to throw tissues in the trash. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and if you become sick, stay home if possible. By taking precautions to prevent the catching and spreading of germs, you can help yourself as well as those around you in minimizing the effects of flu season.