Much to do about the Flu
Preventing the Flu
What comes to mind when you think of the flu? Coughs, sneezing, and fever, or bugs, viruses and germs? They are all results and causes, but Sutter North Medical Foundation believes prevention should be at the top of everyone’s list.
Flu shot or not, the basic ways of prevention are still the best and just happen to be the easiest and least expensive. Washing your hands and covering your cough (without your hands) are very reliable forms of avoiding the flu and preventing the spread of it.
“For most healthy people, the flu shot is not necessary for prevention because healthy people can usually ward off the flu with strong immune systems and essential, but simple precautions,” said Grace Tapawan-Serrano, M.D., Family Practice physician at Sutter North.
Sufficient cleaning amounts to more than running your hands under soap and water for a few seconds, according to the CDC it takes approximately 15 seconds wash of washing your hands vigorously, covering all surfaces and under nails, with soap and warm water.
Protecting yourself also takes taking extra precautions in other high germ areas, and for example, using alcohol based hand sanitizers at the supermarket, mall, work or gym.
Prevention also needs to be top of mind at holiday gatherings; all of the hugging and kissing and sharing of food and drinks is germ paradise. But what can you do to prevent the spread of germs?
“Stay at home if you are sick, avoid others who are sick, and don’t share utensils or drinking cups with others,” said Dr. Tapawan-Serrano. “Also, by getting enough sleep and reducing stress you can improve you immune system to ward off catching the flu.”
In addition, the flu is not the only predator of feeling sick, and a common cold can cause some distress with symptoms such as a stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, sinus congestion and ear aches. In contrast to the flu, a common cold is less severe and can only be treated for temporary relief of some symptoms.
If your symptoms suggest you have the flu, Dr. Tapawan-Serrano recommends calling 1-877-DOC-4-NOW between 7 and 8 a.m. to make a same day appointment with your Sutter North Physician or calling Sutter North’s Urgent Care at 530-749-3420 for location and hours.
Back to top
