Flu Season is Coming

Winter means three things: Christmas, skiing, and the flu. But a lot of people falsely believe sickness is caused by the cold weather. There are many reasons for this belief. For example, it is a fact that most do become sick more often during winter. The name “cold” lends itself to one believing that it is a result of the cold. Cold air gives people runny noses, even if they’re not sick. According to Dr. Jonathan Blum of Massachusetts General Hospital, viruses have “seasons,” in which they are more prevalent, although it is not fully understood why. Tests were conducted in the late 1960’s to determine if cold is a factor in becoming sick. The results of the test showed exposure to the cold did not make the test subjects anymore likely to develop the flu. There are other factors involved, though. Because of the cold, people stay indoors more often. Inside, the air is dry, and viruses survive better in drier air. In addition, wherever people crowd together there is a greater likelihood of spreading sickness. Children are a problem, too. According to The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children are “two to three times more likely than adults to get sick with the flu, and children frequently spread the virus to others.” There are ways to prevent becoming sick, and to avoid spreading it to others. One of the most important ways is to get an annual flu shot. There have been problems the last few years with a lack of the vaccine, but the CDC claims that this year there should be enough for everyone who wants one. The CDC also reports that only about 65% of Americans were immunized last year. Although the vaccine offers no protection from the H5N1 avian flu, the CDC stresses that it is important for people – especially those at a high risk, such as those with asthma. Additionally, The Weather Channel suggests the same things people have heard since childhood: don’t share close contact with sick people, don’t go to class/work when sick, cover the nose and mouth when sneezing, wash hands often, and avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth because it is giving germs an easier route into the body. Everyone gets sick at some point. When that happens, both most mothers and The Weather Channel offer similar advice: get lots of rest, drink lots of fluid, avoid using alcohol and tobacco, and over-the-counter products, such as Nyquil or cough syrup are fine – but avoid giving anything with aspirin to children or teenagers, as it can cause serious health problems.