Watch Out for the Flu This Season

Do you really want to be stuck at home with the flu while all your family and friends are enjoying the holidays? Of course not!

Our team of in-home care providers at Qualicare North York wants you to have the best holiday season yet, which means leaving sickness outside where it belongs!

It’s Time to Fight the Flu

The best way to treat the flu is to prevent it. Therefore, one of the first things you want to do is get a flu shot. While anyone can benefit from the flu vaccine, adults over the age of 65 especially can benefit. That’s because older adults are at an increased risk of developing the flu, along with serious flu-related complications.

You also want to make sure that you are staying away from people who are sick, especially if they have been diagnosed with the flu. The flu virus is extremely contagious, and most people can spread the virus before they even start to exhibit symptoms. 

Finally, you want to make sure you are washing your hands frequently, particularly after touching commonly touched surfaces or coming in contact with someone who may be sick. As a result, you want to make sure you are washing your hands as frequently as possible throughout the day.

Do I Have the Flu?

Unfortunately, sometimes no matter how hard you try, you can still find yourself stuck at home with the flu.

If you are exhibiting any of the symptoms of the flu, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early warning signs of the flu include:

• High fever
• Aching muscles
• Chills and sweats
• Headache
• Dry, persistent cough
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat

If symptoms are caught early enough, a doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to shorten the duration and intensity of the flu. He or she may also recommend OTC medications that can help alleviate individual symptoms.

Are you looking for someone to help care for your loved one in the comfort of home? Contact our in-home care providers at Qualicare North York to learn how we can help.