The Flu Season Has Arrived in Arkansas...
The flu season has arrived in Arkansas early this year. There are already confirmed cases in the southern part of Arkansas and several other Southern states.
What do you look for to see if you have the flu?
Fever
It can range from 99.9 to 104.0 degrees accompanied by chills as well. The best treatment for the fever is fluids, Tylenol, and/or aspirin. If the fever remains high, you can alternate the Tylenol and aspirin every two hours. Cool (room temperature) cloths may be applied to the forehead and neck to help bring the fever down. Plenty of fluids are very important to maintain hydration during this time. Clear liquids, slightly cooled are best. Avoid sodas, milk, and coffee due to their counterproductive effects.
Aches
Your body will ache and hurt constantly. There will be no real position of comfort. Tylenol and aspirin again are good to assist with an attempt of relief or comfort. Fluids will help keep the level of pain from the aches somewhat diminished.
Coughing and Mucous Production
Coughing and mucous production will be endless. The color of the mucous may vary from green to yellow to brown to a mixture of these choices. Fluids help with keeping the mucous thinned out so it is easier to get it out of your lungs. Over the counter medicines such as mucinex will help thin the mucous as well. It is very important to say away from your family and your place of work because the flu is very contagious. If you have a small home or children that will not stay way, then wear a surgical-type mask to decrease the spread of the virus causing the flu. Please stay home and do not share your misery with others. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness!
Hand Washing
Good hand washing is important in helping to decrease the spread of the virus that causes the flu; both by the person who has the flu and those who are helping care for them and protecting themselves from exposure and potential illness.
Prevention
The best treatment is prevention -- get your flu shot as soon as possible. There is no shortage of flu vaccine this year, especially compared to the last three years. The shots are available at the clinic, the County Health Department, and even several local pharmacies.
Treatments
If you have been unfortunate and have contracted or come down with the flu, there are some treatments available. There is a medication in pill form called Tamiflu, which can decrease the severity and the amount of time that you are ill. It will decrease the symptoms as well. There are are other treatments as well, some are older medications and some are experimental, trying to get approval from the FDA. Antibiotics will not treat nor shorten the course of this illness.
The flu is potentially fatal to persons over the age of 65. This illness is responsible for several deaths each year. And in years of a pandemic flu, thousands of people die as a result of infection. Please, get your flu shot, make preparations in case of illness, and do not share your misery.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Clopton Clinic disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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