Flu prevention tips

Flu season has arrived in metro Detroit and Oakwood Healthcare is urging everyone to do their part to help prevent the virus.

Cases of influenza are more common between late October and April and usually peaks in January or February. While the first two months of the season saw fewer cases than average in Michigan, that is no longer the case, according to Dr. Rama Thyagarajan, an infectious disease specialist with Oakwood Healthcare.

“We have seen increased cases of influenza throughout our system,” she said.

Symptoms of the flu include a fever, cough, headache, chills, body aches and fatigue. Children may also experience nausea and diarrhea. They can materialize suddenly and last for days.

The best way to prevent the spread of the virus is to get a flu shot—which is recommended by the Center for Disease Control 

(CDC) for anyone age six or older. Other prevention techniques include avoiding sustained close contact with people who are sick, washing your hands frequently, covering your cough or sneeze and discarding used tissues right away.

Flu shots are most effective if administered proactively; you should not get one if you are already experiencing symptoms.

Thyagarajan said those who are experiencing mild symptoms should stay put, ingest plenty of fluids and get as much rest as they can.

“Unless you feel you are very ill or have shortness of breath, stay home,” she said.

You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Purple or blue discoloration of the lips
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Seizures
• Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough