The flu, caused by easily spreadable viruses, can lead to serious complications, especially for senior citizens. Prevention through an annual flu shot is recommended, particularly for those 50 and older, to minimize symptom severity or reduce the likelihood of infection. If someone contracts the flu, antiviral medications may help reduce the duration of illness if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset.

1. The Flu and Flu Shot
Millionsof peoplesufferfromthe flueverywinter.The flu,or influenza, is caused by viruses, which are
very small germs. Some viruses including the one that causes the flu are easily spread among people.
The flu can present as a relatively minor illness in young, healthy people; but it can become a very
seriousillnessinseniorcitizens,particularlythose witha history of conditions such as diabetes or heart
disease.
Flusymptomsgenerallylastforone totwo weeks,butthe flu canbecome more seriousthanthat.While
your body is working to fight off the flu, you may be more susceptible to other infections such as
pneumonia. Senior citizens are especially likely to face experience complications with the flu.
The fluis highlycontagiousandeasilyspreadsfrompersontoperson,oftenthroughthe air.Itispossible
for youto spreadthe fluto someone else before you even feel symptoms, and you remain contagious
for several days after you begin to feel ill. You may contract the flu if someone has the illness and
sneezesorcoughsnearyou.It is alsopossible togetthe fluif youtouch somethingthat has the flu virus
on it(like a doorknob or phone) and then touch your nose or mouth.
The viruscan existonsurfacesforhours, soit isveryimportantto washyour handswell whenyouknow
you have been in contact with someone who has the flu. Be sure to always wash your hands before
eatingand touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you can, try to stay away from someone you know is
sick.
Distinguishing Between the Flu and a Cold
Although flu and colds have similar symptoms, they can be differentiated by a few traits. A cold is
usuallymilderthanthe flu;butsince the flucan cause seriousproblems,itisimportant to recognize the
differences.

2. Normal symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, dry cough, aches and pains, headache, and fatigue.
Some people withthe flumayexperience sore throat, sneezing, stuffy nose, or stomach problems, but
those symptoms are not as common. The flu is a different virus from what some people call the
"stomach flu," which mainly causes digestive problems.
Prevention
Getting an annual flu shot, which contains the flu vaccine, can help you stay in good health. Many
insurance plans will pay for the shot, which you can get at a doctor's office or the local health
department. Many grocery stores and pharmacies also offer the flu shot during a certain time of year.
Althoughthe shotcannotguarantee health for everyone, getting the shot every year can decrease the
likelihood of catching the flu or minimize symptoms if you do catch it.
It isrecommendedthatseniorcitizens age 50 and older should get a flu shot once a year. Additionally,
anyone who lives with or provides the elder care for a senior citizen should also get the flu shot each
year.
The peak season for getting the flu, referred to as "flu season," is November through April. Since the
effects of the shot begin to work two weeks after you receive the vaccine, you should aim to get the
shotin Octoberor earlyNovember.If youcannotgeta flushotbefore fluseasonbegins,it is still a good
idea to get the shot.
Treatment
If you catch the flu, call your physician to ask about possible treatments that can help. Be sure to
mention other medications you are taking such as drugs to fight cancer or other medicines that may
weakenyourbody'simmune system.Prescriptiondrugscalledantiviralsare usedtotreat the flu. Taking
antiviralswithin 48 hours of flu onset can decrease the amount of time you feel sick. To learn in detail
about flu, visit at http://elitememphis.com

3. Contact Us
Elite Total Health Memphis
Address: 263 S Main Street
Memphis, TN (38103)
Phone: 901-505-2017
Email: elitetotalhealth@gmail.com
External Links:
Itsmyurls
Digg
Diigo
Disqus
Kinja