Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease that is caused by influenza viruses. Infection usually lasts for about a week and symptoms include high fever, muscle ache, headache, cough and sore throat, according to the World Health Organization. Influenza can range from mild to severe illness, and in some cases, can even cause death. There are a number of things that can be done to prevent infection with influenza.
Step 1
Get vaccinated. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting an influenza vaccine as the primary step in preventing the spread of flu viruses. Vaccination is especially important for high-risk populations such as children, elderly adults and those with compromised immune systems.
Step 2
Wash hands with soap and water. Most cases of influenza are spread through direct contact, according to the University of Pennsylvania's Office of Health Education. Washing hands for a count of 15 to 30 seconds many times throughout the day can effectively reduce the number of germs. If soap and water are not available, anti-bacterial hand gels can be substituted.
Step 3
Cover sneezes and coughs with a tissue or inside of the elbow. Using hands to cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing can result in the spread of the influenza virus. Tissues should be easily accessible and used to cover the nose and mouth, then thrown away after one use. When tissue is not available, coughing into the inner part of the elbow rather than the hands can help reduce the likelihood of spreading flu germs.
Step 4
Don’t touch the face. Most flu viruses enter the body though the nose, eyes and mouth, so not touching these areas can help prevent the introduction of any germs that might be present on the fingers and hands.
Step 5
Eat fruits and vegetables. Phytochemicals, which are specific nutrients found in fruits and vegetables, have been shown to help prevent influenza, according to the University of Pennsylvania's Office of Health Education. Dark green, red and yellow vegetables and fruits have the highest content.
Step 6
Get adequate sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight off infection, according to Discovery Health. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep every night.
Step 7
Drink plenty of fluids. Water helps to flush out the system and purge the body of any toxins, according to the University of Pennsylvania's Office of Health Education. Aim for at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water per day. Urine color should be almost clear, as opposed to yellow.
Step 8
Don’t smoke. The presence of smoke can increase the body’s susceptibility to influenza. Smokers should cut back on the number of cigarettes smoked, and non-smokers should avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
Step 9
Reduce stress. Immune response can also be decreased by heavy stress on the body. Practicing yoga, meditation or deep breathing can help rid the body of stress. Engaging in pleasurable hobbies or exercising on a daily basis is also beneficial.
Things You'll Need
- Facial tissues
- Soap and water
- Anti-bacterial hand gel
- Fruits and vegetables
- Drinking water
