Ways to Protect Yourself From Getting the Flu

Influenza (flu) comes from a virus and causes a miserable set of symptoms characterized by the rapid onset of a stuffy nose, aches, fever, chills and coughing. Flu differs from a common cold mainly because it comes on faster, lasts longer and involves symptoms that affect your whole body. At its best, flu can leave you wiped out. At its worst, flu can lead to hospitalization or even death. The more serious outcomes of flu typically occur in the very young or older persons who have other complicating medical conditions.
Hand Washing
The CDC says there are 36,000 deaths annually and 9 to 10 times that number hospitalizations each year due to the flu or its complications. The healthcare community generally believes that hand washing is the best protection from the flu. But while hand washing is a simple thing, the way you wash your hands and dry them makes a big difference in the effectiveness of this technique. Waterless, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are effective substitutes for soap and water. Note that even if you wear gloves when handling materials known to be contaminated with influenza virus, you should wash your hands after removing the gloves.
Masks
Masks can be worn for self protection or for the protection of others around you if you are the one with the virus. Masks can be uncomfortable, hot and attention-getting. If you have the flu, it's best to stay home at least until your fever is gone and coughing is resolved. If you have to go out, wear a mask to avoid contaminating others. If you are protecting yourself from the flu and are in an area of low contamination (outside, not in a hospital or nursing home) you can safely use a disposable face mask for up to 3 days. Of course, change it if it gets dirty or damaged. In a high-risk environment, you should change your face mask every 4 hours or so. Properly dispose of used masks by placing them in plastic bags, and don't forget to wash your hands afterward.
Flu Shots
Getting an annual flu shot can cut your chances of getting the flu up to 40 to 90 percent. Flu shots come in two different forms. The most commonly known form is a shot that is given with a needle. Recent studies indicate a short needle with a superficial injection is very effective. Another type of flu shot is a nasal spray. Neither kind of shot causes the flu, they are designed to protect you from getting it and is likely one of the best measures you can take to protect yourself. Each year, the flu vaccines contain different anti-virus mixes. So getting a flu shot of either type one year does not protect you the next. Flu shots are normally made available in late fall. Ask your doctor about getting one, or check local community services for a list of where flu shots are being given. They are typically very inexpensive or covered by insurance.
Positive Attitude
Researchers have done studies to determine the impact of a positive attitude and positive emotions on the severity of colds and flu. The good news is people who reported a positive attitude had a lower incidence of flu overall, and their illnesses were shorter. Regular exercise, healthy eating and getting plenty of rest can help you ward off the flu, as well.
Diet
Take caution relying on herbs and supplements alone to prevent flu. Some studies have not proven the effectiveness of vitamins, ginseng or other homeopathic remedies in flu prevention. Follow a healthy, well-balanced diet if you have the flu, and be sure and take in fluids if you have a fever, as dehydration can make you feel even worse. Ask your doctor for a recommendation of additional vitamins or supplements.