The flu virus (Influenza) has been very active this year. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) flu was reported in all states as of the week of December 6th. The southern states, Puerto Rico, Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas are getting the brunt of it with high levels of influenza illness. But wherever you are, influenza and other viruses are not too far away. A map can show you what activity is taking part in your state. http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/#S5
So as the holidays bring us together, there are some things you can do to prevent illness from the flu:
1. If you haven’t gotten a flu shot, there’s still time. It’s been shown that the flu shot this year is 48% effective against Influenza A (H3N2) viruses. That doesn’t seem very reassuring, but in the past this virus tended to cause a higher mortality rate compared to influenza A (H1N1) or influenza B viruses. So this vaccine will give you some protection against the nastiest of virus, and it will provide some protection against drifted (different) viruses not in the vaccine. So in other words, if you do get the flu, your symptoms will be much milder than if you didn’t get it at all. Other options include:
2. Influenzium -This is a homeopathic product that contains the same strains of the flu vaccine. It is a 3 week remedy that I recommend if you choose not to get a flu vaccine or you can take it even if you have had the vaccine and have been exposed to the flu.
3. Wash you hands…ALOT!
4. If you have been exposed to someone with the flu or develop symptoms (fever, muscle aches, headache, fatigue) call your doctor right away and get a prescription for Tamiflu, which is very effective in treating the flu this year. It’s best to get treatment within 48 hours from the onset of symptoms.
5. Stay away from sick people and stay home from work or school if you feel ill.
6. There are some supplements that you can take on a daily basis to ward off viruses. Try Vitamin C (at least 1000mg daily), Elderberry extract or olive leaf extract.
7. Glutathione is one of my favorite supplements. It is an important antioxidant that especially helps coughs and sinus congestion. Make sure you find a liposomal liquid glutathione that’s been shown to have the best absorption.
Best of health!