Influenza, or the flu, is a viral illness that passes through the Northern Hemisphere in the winter months of December through March. Its symptoms include a fever, coughing, body aches, chills, loss of appetite and, in some cases, vomiting or diarrhea. Most people fight off the flu on their own, but others must be hospitalized, and some die each year from secondary infections caused by the flu.
Step 1
Get a flu vaccination. Each year, a new influenza vaccine is made available to the public to prevent the strains of flu that scientists expect to cause the most illness. Get your flu vaccination from your doctor or at a public health clinic in October for maximum efficacy.
Step 2
Wash your hands before eating, after using the bathroom and after being in public for any amount of time. If you do not have soap and water available, use an antibacterial hand sanitizer.
Step 3
Eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to boost your immune system.
Step 4
Get enough sleep. Immune function can be diminished from not getting enough sleep. Adults should sleep seven or eight hours each night.
Step 5
Exercise regularly to keep your immune system in good shape.
Step 6
Avoid large crowds during cold and flu season.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor about FluMist, a nasal spray that can prevent the flu.
Things You'll Need
- Flu vaccine
