Flu Report 2008

The flu shot received last October provided hope that the infamous cold and flu season would not land anywhere close to where I was standing. That hope has now vanished, replaced with chills, a heavy chest, bouts of coughing, a fleeting earache, and of course the runny nose and headache associated with the culprit.

Many have the mistaken idea the word "flu," short for influenza, refers to bouts in the bathroom, with one's shoulders heaving as one goes through the process of emptying one's stomach. Not so. According to the Center for Disease Control, "the flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year." Although good advice, the vaccination does not always prevent the flu.

Avoiding those who have the flu is always the best way to avoid getting it. If one is ill, one should not go to work. The CDC advises "healthy adults may be able to infect others 1 day before getting symptoms and up to 5 days after getting sick." Ouch.

While the virus is everywhere, as of January 12, 2008, Colorado reported the most "widespread activity." And for those who reside elsewhere thinking they are home free, read on. According to the CDC, for the week ending January 5, "local activity was reported by the District of Columbia and 12 states (Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Carolina Virginia, and Washington)."

What to do if you feel flu-ish? Start taking Zicam asap -- the zinc in Zicam "shortens the severity and symptoms" and I have to agree. The Zicam site actually declares Albany, New York as the worst place for the flu as of 1-11-08. Albanians: wash your hands! Purell hand sanitizers kill flu germs found on grocery carts, door knobs, computer keyboards, and other germy places. Another option is the old time favorite, homemade chicken soup, considered the first course of action for flu fighting due to its medicinal value. Hot chicken soup allows the warm steam to open clogged nasal passages, as well as providing a warm feeling of well-being.

Now on the path to well being: I took the Zicam and will continue to do so; took two aspirin; drinking plenty of water, including Pelligreno. Will hover under the the down comforter (with a dry cleanable duvet for germ killing reasons), and will soon be back to my spunky self. Must sign off before spraying the keyboard and all non-moving objects with Lysol. Stay well.
Photo attribution: somewhatfrank