Want to know how to avoid the flu? Here’s what the virus would tell you if it could: whom it loves to infect, the surprising places it lurks in your home, and how it makes you feel so crummy.
Think I’m just a cold? Ha!
Underestimate me at your peril. Each year on average, I send 200,000 people to the hospital and have a hand in killing at least 23,000 (usually if they also develop complications such as pneumonia). Not to brag, but I am strong enough to render even a totally normal, healthy person gravely ill.
I dread nothing more than the flu vaccine
It’s the best way to ensure that I can’t wreak havoc. A vaccine provides your immune system with National Security Agency–level intelligence to identify and eradicate me. This season, I’m especially nervous—there’s a new quadrivalent vaccine that protects against four flu strains instead of the usual three. There’s a new vaccine for people who are allergic to eggs and, once again, an extra-strength version for senior citizens. Yikes. Just be sure you’re not making these 8 mistakes that could mess up your flu shot.
I’m terrified of products labeled “disinfectant”
This means they’ve been tested for their ability to kill viruses (like me). Cleaning products labeled “sanitizer” have to kill only bacteria. Disinfectants can take a few minutes to kick in, so if you spray one on a surface and immediately wipe it off, chances are some of my viruses will survive.
Article by: jacarandafm.com
