Flu Season is Here

The new strain of the flu virus, H1N1, is making headlines. On the radio, on the television news, in the newspaper, and online we are told the nasty virus is coming, and it's time to get ready. Just like any disease, the best way to battle it is prevention. Here are a few helpful tips on how to battle the flu, before it reaches you.

• Wash your hands: Hand washing is the number one way you can prevent the spread of disease. Wash frequently, for at least 20 seconds. If a sink is not nearby, an alcohol based sanitizer will do the trick.



• Take Vitamin D: Exposure to the sun helps in getting your daily dose of this important vitamin, but winter makes that more difficult. Make sure vitamin D is in your daily dose, as it has been proven to reduce the likelyhood of the flu.



• Eat Probiotics: Probiotics are good bacteria found in fermented food such as yogurt and soy. Promoting a healthy balance of bacteria will help in digestion, and boost immune fighting chemicals in your body.



• Eat Fruits and Veggies: This is a good idea all year round, but loading up your body with immune fighting phytochemicals found in these foods is essential during flu season.



• Get Vaccinated: Although the National Institutes of Health does not have the H1N1 vaccine ready for widespread use, you can still get the general flu vaccine now.

The new Dr. Oz Show recently featured the flu on a recent broadcast, and gave several more helpful suggestions on how to prevent it. The three most important groups of individuals who should get the flu vaccine immediately are pregnant women, young children, and those in the healthcare industry. Elder Care Guides is doing what we can to inform our clients and caregivers of this important information, and encouraging them to incorporate these preventative measures. Sending out a flyer of information, offering to reimburse for the cost of the vaccine, and reminders during home visits are a few ways we have helped.

Here's to your health!