flu season

The holidays are a time for family, friends and food.

But with all the twinkling lights and gingerbread houses, there are also some pretty serious viruses, like the flu, making their way through our homes.

Hear from Dr. Joseph Hathorn, one of our board certified emergency physicians, about common flu myths, home remedies and how to tell if your cough might be something more serious.

Q: What’s a common misconception about the flu?

A: One common misconception is that you can get the flu from the flu vaccine itself. This is simply not the case. The vaccine is made of the inactivated flu virus and because of this you cannot get an infection from it. If you get sick after getting the shot, it is most likely because the vaccine did not have time to provide full immunity and you may have caught the common cold.

Influenza is a dangerous infection, which can lead to hospitalization, and even death. The CDC estimates that there’s been as many as 700,000 flu-related hospitalizations since 2010. Don’t risk catching the flu when you could be sitting around a crackling fire with loved ones. Get vaccinated and protect your health and the health of those around you.

Wondering where to get your vaccine? Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens and even some grocery stores give immunizations. View this link to find where you can get vaccinated.

Q: How do I know if I have the flu or if it’s just a cold?

A: The flu generally comes with more serious and debilitating symptoms. Patients who have the flu tend to run a high fever whereas patients who have the common cold may have a low-grade fever or no fever at all. Patients with the flu also tend to experience body aches to the point where they are unable or unwilling to move.

You may also experience these symptoms:

• • Chills and headaches
  • Dehydration
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea

Q: What’s the best preventative measure against flu?

A: The best way to protect yourself during flu season is to receive the flu vaccine and to practice regular, vigorous handwashing.

Check out our guide on handwashing.

Q: What’s an at home remedy I can try during the flu season?

A: While there is no “proven” home remedy for the flu, some believe in the power of chicken soup and hot lemon tea. These “remedies” are soothing and comforting but will not directly affect the flu virus. The best thing to do at home is to take Ibuprofen and Tylenol for fever and body aches. You also want to make sure to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest.

Now that you’ve heard from our physician, let us know how you fortify your body during flu season!

Nutex Health, Inc. supports you and your family’s health. Come visit Victoria Emergency Center or any one of our concierge-level freestanding facilities for the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.