Fall 2010 Newsletter
The heat of summer has given way to the cool of fall, and soon we will probably be seeing cases of the flu.
Flu Prevention
Good general disease prevention hygiene includes frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizers such as Purel. I often recommend to patients that when attending social gatherings, before visiting the buffet line, visit the rest room to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. Having both hands occupied with food or drink is a good way to avoid appearing impolite when people approach you and want a good handshake. A handshake may be a polite gesture at social gatherings, but it is also an excellent way to spread colds, flu, and numerous other types of infection.
Flu Vaccines
Flu vaccines are widely available, and we should not experience the shortages we saw last year. This vaccine should protect against the common flu as well as H1N1 (swine) flu. What should you do to minimize your risk of getting the flu? The US Center for Disease Control (CDC) has excellent information.
Many people wonder if they should get their flu vaccine if they are ill. Theoretically any vaccine may not be as effective if given during a current illness because it is felt that the body will not be able to mount a good immune response to the vaccine while fighting off infection. It is sometimes a judgment call as to whether a patient should receive a vaccine when they are ill, but in the case of flu vaccine I generally err on the side of giving it if there is any doubt.
Prevent Spreading the Flu and Other Diseases
In addition to vaccination, there are other actions everyone should take to help prevent the spread of flu. This includes:
- coverings coughs and sneezes with a tissue;
- washing hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing; and
- staying home when sick with flu-like symptoms except to seek medical care.
The above actions work for any type of communicable disease including viral gastroenteritis (sometimes called “stomach flu”) and the common cold. Many people wonder when they should see a healthcare provider for a cold. Colds are caused by viruses, and therefore cannot be treated with antibiotics. Most will run their course with rest, adequate fluid intake, and a healthy diet. Colds can lead to secondary infections including sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia. These are more commonly seen in people with medical illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems such as asthma and emphysema. If the cold lasts more than 4-5 days or if you develop a productive cough with discolored sputum (yellowish, greenish, rust colored, bloody) you should seek treatment from your healthcare provider.
When to Consult Your Doctor
People who become severely ill or have a medical condition that places them at high risk for flu-related complications and develop flu-like symptoms, including fever or chills and cough or sore throat, should consult with a healthcare provider. They might need to be treated with influenza antiviral medicines. High risk medical conditions include asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease.
I trust that you have found the above recommendations helpful and that you will have a safe and healthy fall.
Eldon S Beard, MD
