Tips for Flu Prevention

Runny noses, fevers, and sore throats aren’t the most likely items to end up on Christmas lists this year.

To avoid the flu and its associated symptoms, it is necessary to take measures that are not often considered joyful or merry.

One of the most effective measures taken to prevent the virus is also one of the most painful: the flu shot.

“[The vaccination] is about 70 percent effective,” said infectious disease expert MaryAnn Tran, M.D., an assistant professor of medicine at Michigan State and medical director of infection prevention at Sparrow Hospital. “And it’s the best way to prevent the flu.”

Flu vaccination clinics are offered by MSU’s Olin Health center as well as local pharmacies, such as CVS, in an effort to make the process as convenient as possible for students.

In addition to the vaccination, good hygienic habits, especially proper hand washing, are important when it comes to flu prevention, as the easiest way to spread the virus is via contact, be it direct or indirect.

Other measures to avoid getting the flu include: getting enough sleep, hydrating often, and staying active, but taking it easy when the symptoms start to appear. 

What is the Influenza Virus?

 It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and it’s beginning to sound like a runny nose.

Scientifically known as seasonal influenza, the flu is a viral respiratory infection experienced by between five and 20 percent of Americans every year.

The influenza virus is spread through direct and indirect contact with infected individuals.

Infectious disease specialist MaryAnn Tran, M.D., an assistant professor of medicine at Michigan State University, said the flu is transmitted within a three to six foot range.

Tran also said there is a different strain of the virus every season, and its mutation rate is second likely to only HIV.

 Many major symptoms of the flu are similar to the common cold; however, complications that arise from the virus can be much more serious, ranging from bacterial infections to death.

Tran said infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with co-morbidities (such as heart disease) are among those who are most at risk for serious flu complications.

 However, she said for the most part, the college-age demographic is not at risk.

           

“A young, healthy person probably won’t [have many complications],” said Tran.