Don’t let the flu catch you, prevent seasonal illnesses with these handy tips

Flu symptoms: Common symptoms of flu include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny, or stuffy, nose, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. In some cases, children may also experience vomiting and diarrhoea

The flu may seem like a common illness. However, studies suggest that it can be dangerous as it spreads easily from person to person. It affects the nose, throat, and lungs, making it harder to breathe and causing symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), two main types of flu viruses—Type A and Type B—cause seasonal flu outbreaks each year.

Some people are more at risk of serious flu complications than others. Older adults, young children, and people with health problems like heart disease or asthma are more likely to become extremely sick from the flu.

Flu symptoms can appear suddenly. One moment you may feel fine, and the next, you could experience fever, body aches, or a sore throat. According to the Centres for Disease, Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms of flu include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny, or stuffy, nose, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. In some cases, children may also experience vomiting and diarrhoea.

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A CDC study reveals that between 2017 and 2023, 8% of people who tested positive for the flu had no symptoms. However, these people x oil still spread the virus to others. This is why taking precautions during flu season is essential to prevent the spread of infection.

Preventive tips to fight flu:

Get vaccinated: According to the CDC, the best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot every year, as it protects against the most common flu strains. The flu vaccine helps your immune system recognise and fight the virus, reducing your risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and complications like pneumonia.

Practice hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching public surfaces. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitiser with at least 60 percent alcohol. Proper handwashing reduces the spread of germs and lowers your chances of getting infected.

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Avoid close contact: The flu spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Maintain at least a six-foot distance from those who show flu symptoms to reduce your risk of exposure. If someone at home is sick, disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and phones to prevent the virus from spreading.

Cover your mouth, nose: When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or your elbow to prevent spreading germs. Droplets from a single cough or sneeze can travel up to six feet and remain on surfaces for hours. Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward to avoid contaminating shared spaces.

Stay home when sick: The flu is most contagious in the first three to four days after symptoms appear. Staying home helps prevent the spread of the virus to coworkers, classmates, or vulnerable people, including, young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Resting and staying hydrated also support a faster recovery.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.