Nobody wants to get the flu. It makes you feel miserable and can cause very serious complications. So what can we do to avoid the flu? Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu, but it doesn't end there. Dr. Bill Sears - one of the nation's most recognized pediatricians - has five flu prevention tips to help keep your children and your family healthy during flu season.
I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Sears about his flu prevention plan and get his thoughts on the flu in general.
Dr. Bill Sears' 5-Step Flu Prevention Plan:
- Keep Germs Away. Avoid shaking hands (germs are spread mostly through hand contact) - try bowing or nodding instead.
- Keep Hands Clean. Wash your hands often or clean with antibacterial wipes (such as Wet Ones) when soap and water aren't available.
- Eat Immune Boosting Foods. Dr. Sears' suggestions: "salmon, salads and smoothies." Eat foods that have lots of vitamins and immune boosting properties. Foods that are high in antioxidants may help keep you healthy.
- Keep Nose and Sinuses Clear. "Nose Hose and a Steam Clean" - Use a Neti Pot to keep your sinuses cleaned out and run a vaporizer at night to keep your nasal passages moist so the flu germs can't take hold. Central heat (which dries out the air) and cold temperatures make it easy for flu germs to spread and make people sick.
- Stay Active. Kids (and adults) who sit more often get sick more often. So get moving!
There are two groups most affected by the flu - very young children and older adults. These groups are most susceptible to serious illness and complications so these tips are developed mostly to protect them.
Dr. Sears' take home message? "Prevention by building up your immune system." Do everything you can to stay healthy so your body will be better able to fight off any germs that come your way.
Source:
Dr. William Sears. Personal Telephone Interview. 27 Jan 10.
