Everyone knows there is a flu bug making the rounds. The Center for Disease Control has a pamphlet it is distributing offering information on what this strain of flu is, and how to take precautions from this virus. You can download the pamphlet here

The symptoms include fever (although not everyone with the flu will have a fever), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache chills and fatigue. There are also warning signs for children that include a rash and breathing issues. Severe warning signs for adults include shortness of brath, pain in chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion and severe or persistent vomiting. You should seek medical care urgently if you have these warning signs.

There are medicines to treat infections from the flu. The first line of defense is a flu shot. There are also antiviral drugs available through a prescription from your health care provider. If you are sick, the CDC recommends you stay home for 24 hours after your fever is gone (unless visiting your healthcare provider. Stay away from others to prevent making others sick. Even if you don’t have a fever, you can be contagious and make others ill.

The flu spreads through droplets of moisture made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets then land on others and are inhaled, or people touch surfaces with the moisture on them and then rub their eyes, nose or mouth. You can spread the virus from one day before you are sick to 5-7 days after you are sick.

To help prevent and protect yourself from this virus, get a flu shot. Take actions everyday to prevent the spread of germs that cause the virus. Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and use an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth. Sounds simple, but avoid sick people. Stay home if you are sick! If you see a healthcare provider, take all prescribed medications.

If you do get sick…stay home. Drink lots of fluids, get some rest. Call Grandma for chicken soup. If you are an at risk person that could get very ill (under 5, over 65, pregnant women, have asthma, chronic heart/lung disease), seek medical attention.

Managepoint understands that people do not like to stay home when sick. However, using your sick days is what they are there for. Don’t pass the flu to the rest of the office. Get rest, get better, and get back to work.