Show #324 Airing 1/1/06
We hate to be the ones to “spread” the bad news. But at this time of year, winter colds and flu can spread like summer wild fires, and you need to be ready to fight back. Here with tips on how to defeat winter disease is Diane Salisbury, a nurse in infection control at Akron General Medical Center.
Question: Why are seniors particularly susceptible to a cold or the flu?
Answer: As we age, our immunity wanes and we become more likely to become sick. What is particularly dangerous to seniors, however, are the complications to an illness like the flu. Flu can grow into pneumonia, and that can at times be fatal.
Question: What can you do to prevent getting sick?
Answer: If you are over 50, get a flu shot. It’s still not too late to do so this year (though the shot takes two weeks to take affect, your doctor might prescribe anti-viral medication in the interim if necessary). The flu shot is something you should receive each year. It can prevent you from getting the flu or, if you do fall ill, it prevents the more serious side effects, like pneumonia.
Those over 65 should also receive the pneumonia vaccine. You only need to receive this immunization once.
Question: What about preventing a cold?
Answer: Practice good hand hygiene, especially this time of year. It’s a good idea to carry an alcohol-based rub (such as Purell) to use if you find yourself in a crowd, shaking numerous hands, etc.
Take good care of yourself. Make sure you receive enough rest. Eat a proper diet. Get your immunizations.
Question: Does Lysol help?
Answer: Yes. Kills virus.
Question: What are some of the symptoms you may experience?
Answer: A cold comes on slowly and insidiously, and is often accompanied by sneezing, congestion, and a scratchy throat. You may or may not have a fever and may feel a little tired.
The flu comes on very suddenly—one minute you feel fine, the next you feel sick. It is accompanied by a high fever, aches, and fatigue. You may feel congested, but may not be experiencing sneezing. You can feel under the weather for 2-3 weeks.
Question: What should you do if you do get sick?
Answer: If you think you have the flu, contact your doctor immediately. Within the first 48 hours, you may be prescribed anti-virals that can help you avoid complications.
Since it’s cold and flu season, it’s a good idea to be prepared with the items you’ll need if you get sick: Tylenol/Advil to lower your fever/deal with aches, a thermometer, plenty of liquids (including soup), tissues, even enough pet food in case you can’t get to the store.
If you are sick, practice good respiratory etiquette:
- If at all possible, stay home! If you must go out in public, consider wearing a surgical mask (available at drug stores).
- Cough and sneeze into a tissue if available. If not, use the inner aspect of your elbow, not your hand.
- Carry/use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Keep yourself 3 feet or more away from others, if possible.
Get your shots, follow our expert tips, and you may be able to avoid the sniffles. My thanks to Diane Salisbury. If you’d like more information, or a free fact sheet, call Akron General Medical Center.
