Stay healthy during flu season

  • Published
  • By Capt. Kerry Ciolek
  • Public Health and Immunizations officer in charge
HANSCOM AFB, Mass. --  As the influenza season approaches, the 66th Medical Group reminds the Hanscom community to reduce the risk of contracting the flu.

Influenza is a virus which spreads when an individual inhales small particles dispersed through the air by an infected person's sneeze or cough, or touches contaminated surfaces and makes subsequent contact with their mouth, nose or eyes.

One to three days following exposure, the infected individual will experience symptoms including fever, chills, headache, fatigue, body aches, a sore throat, a runny nose and a cough. Vomiting and diarrhea can occur, but are more common in children than adults.

Flu symptoms usually last from three to ten days. An infected individual is usually contagious one day before symptoms appear and for up to seven days after.

As treatment is relatively limited, prevention is vital. The best way to prevent getting the flu is to be vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is mandatory for all active duty personnel and is also available for families, Defense Department civilians and retirees. For more information about flu vaccinations, call the Public Health Office at (781) 377-1393.

Good health habits can also be helpful in preventing the virus. Some of the most effective ways individuals can reduce the risk of getting or spreading the flu are: 

· Frequently washing their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based products to protect from germs. 

· Avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and not exposing others to infected individuals. 

· Avoiding touching their eyes, noses, or mouths. 

· Staying home from work when they are sick. Working when sick puts others at risk and slows the infected individual's recovery. 

· Covering their mouths and noses with tissues or their sleeves when coughing or sneezing. This will help keep others from being exposed to germs and getting sick. 
Individuals must be sure to throw away the tissues immediately after use.

For more information on flu prevention, go to www.cdc.gov/flu, call the Public Health Office, or contact your medical provider.