Are You Ready for the Flu Season?

by Donna Grube RN, DON, Peter Becker Community  --- From November 2011 CHIT CHAT

Fall ushers in many wonderful activities and treats; hay rides, apple picking, football, pumpkin pie and bon fires just to name a few. Unfortunately along with those we also enter into the “flu season”. Flu or influenza is a serious contagious disease which is caused by a virus spread from droplets in the air. These droplets are made when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in your mouth or nose if you are near by or they can be inhaled into the lungs. They can also land on a surface and if you touch the surface and then touch your own eyes, mouth or nose you can be infected with the virus.

The most important step you can take to protect yourself is to get a flu shot. Please contact one of our independent living nurses or your primary care physi-cian to schedule a time to receive your immunization. Remember to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Wash you hands often with soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as germs are spread this way. Try to avoid close contact with anyone who is sick. If you are sick please stay home except to seek medical care.

Flu symptoms can include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills, fatigue and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting.

If you think you may be ill or becoming ill please do not visit any other area of the campus. The loving thing to do is call; send a card and or email. You can also ask another healthy resident or family member to visit in your place. If you would like more information on the flu please visit http://www.flu.gov or call 800-CDC-INFO. Best wishes for a happy, healthy fall!