The Flu has arrived in AZ

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By Sharon Colbert-Groves

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On the local evening news, I learned that an elementary school girl has died from influenza in Maricopa County. The 2018 strain of virus is called the H3N2. It is cause for concern for younger children and older adults. The news went on to say that our current flu vaccine does protect against at least 3 different flu viruses including the H3N2, the H1N1, and two influenza B viruses. The arrival and duration of the flu vary, but it often begins in October and peaks between December and February.

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Symptoms of Flu in adults usually start with that achy/feverish/chills feeling, although some people say their first indication was a cough or a sore throat. Either way, it usually escalates into a runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and tiredness.

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What can I take for the flu? Tamiflu is a pill and Relenza is an inhaled powder. Both can cut 1 or 2 days off bedtime. These 2 prescription drugs can also keep you from getting dangerously ill, especially if your health is impaired. For most effectiveness, both must be taken within a day or so of your initial symptoms. Talk to your doctor about these meds.

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To relieve slight fever or pain, try ibuprofen and acetaminophen, found in Motrin, Advil, Tylenol, and others. If you have asthma, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, please check with your doctor before taking them. Since flu can cause dehydration, the Health and Human Services Department recommends plenty of clear fluids such as water, broth, or sports drinks.My mom always made me sip through a straw if my stomach was upset. Don’t know why, but it seemed to work for me. Drinking fluids can ease a sore throat, as well as using cough drops.

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What can I eat with the flu? I’m sure all our moms made us wonderful chicken noodle soup. It was their ‘go to remedy’. It is not just an old wives’ tale; it can aid your support system, clear nasal congestion, and have a mild anti-inflammatory effect to ease symptoms. It keeps nasal passages moist and prevents dehydration as well as fights inflammation in the throat.
How long am I contagious? You’re contagious from 24 hours before “YOU” have any symptoms. You remain contagious for 5 to 7 days after you start feeling sick. Kids are able to spread the virus even longer.

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Should I go to the hospital? Yes, if you have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Definitely, if you have chest pain or severe pain in your abdomen, confusion, dizziness, or severe vomiting that won’t stop.

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If you’re fit and healthy, usually you may not need to see a doctor unless your symptoms worsen, are severe and unrelenting. The best remedy is to rest at home, keep warm, and drink plenty of liquids. Gargling with warm salt water can also soothe your sore throat. The rest of us will thank you if you please stay home from work, shopping, social events, and public gatherings.

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Remember to cover your mouth if you sneeze.