Preventing and managing flu symptoms is what one needs to equip with while going through a flu season. There have been many cases of flu reported in addition to a small number of Covid-19 cases as announced by the Ministry of Health. People who came down with flu this season also complained about severe body pain and fatigue.
Dr Salah al Hinai, family medicine practitioner, explained that flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and even death in some cases.
Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to prevent the flu. When it comes to treatment of flu, he said that there is no specific treatment for flu. Patients can take over the counter medications like analgesics and decongestants. But there are precautions one should consider.
Dr Al Hinai said, “The most important step to be taken is to get vaccinated every year. The flu vaccine is safe and effective for most people. It works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies that can protect people from getting sick. It’s recommended for everyone six months of age and above to get vaccinated against the flu. He explained that the second point to bear in mind always is to wash hands frequently with soap and water.
“This is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser,” he advised.
The third most important factor to remember is to avoid close contact with people who are sick. This means staying away from people who are coughing, sneezing, or have other flu symptoms.
Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing is a precaution one must make as a habit, he pointed out. If tissue is unavailable, coughing or sneezing into the elbow is advised.
Dr Al Hinai feels it is extremely important to stay at home when having sickness as this will help prevent people from spreading the flu to others.
Practicing good hygiene habits goes a long way in keeping you safe from flu and this includes avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
And finally in Dr Al Hinai’s list is eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of rest as these can help boost the immune system.
Lately there have also been cases of Covid-19 and Dr Al Hinai said this is why people should take extra cautions.
“Yes, they should prevent transmission of the disease to themselves and their family,” he concluded, also adding that if after following the above mentioned tips and if symptoms persist or get worse then it is time to seek medical advice.
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