Counseling Patients on Ways to Protect Against the Flu
Health providers can counsel patients on ways to protect themselves including:
- Get the flu vaccine! Either the shot or the nasal spray if you are eligible.
- Practicing good respiratory hygiene and hand washing that may help reduce the risk of getting colds and flu;
- Keeping common surfaces at home and work clean (phones, counter tops, bathroom fixtures, etc.);
- Remaining home from work, school and public places when individuals are sick to reduce the potential spread of the flu virus and help control outbreaks;
- Encouraging patients who think they have the flu to contact their health providers to obtain proper treatment, possibly including antiviral drugs and vaccination against pneumococcal disease.
- Understanding the symptoms of the flu. The sudden onset of a fever (usually high) and an "achy feeling" are common with the flu, along with upper respiratory symptoms. Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, may occur in children who have influenza but rarely occur in adults. Patients with symptoms of influenza should be counseled to remain home from work or school until their symptoms resolve.