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Flu Symptoms

Monday, January 21, 2013

5 Tips to Avoid the Flu

Florida's flu season may last through February. Here are a few simple steps for staying well.

1.) The flu virus can live up to 12 hours on countertops and doorknobs. It's not a bad idea to wipe down hard surfaces at the home or office, including keyboards. Using disinfecting wipes is quick and convenient. Keeping a spraycan of Lysol handy is not a bad idea either. 2.) Advise family members to cover their mouths when they sneeze or cough. Avoid people who do not take this precaution because it is a sure way to pass along flu germs. 3.) If you do not have to shake hands, then don't. The contact allows for the virus to be transmitted if the person then rubs his or her eyes or mouth. 4.) Remember when Mom said to wash your hands? Well, she was right. Health experts say use soap and sing "Happy Birthday" twice to yourself to know that …

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Are You Sure It's the Flu?

Here are signs and symptoms of the flu, and steps to take to keep from getting sick or pass along germs to someone else.

Fever, body aches, a sore throat. These are the classic signs of flu, right? Yes, though not everyone with flu gets a fever. Patients also can expect to be  extremely tired, cough, have a runny or stuffy nose and vomit. Diarrhea is more common in children.  What to do if you get the flu If someone in the household does come down with the flu, the Red Cross has this advice: For more information 1.) You should still get a flu shot The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting someone against flu viruses. Here are some local places to get your flu shot. 2.) Take steps to prevent the flu, including: Stay connected by signing up for our free email newsletter …

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