Common sense, flu shot can keep illnesses at bay during flu season

By Special to the Times

Posted: October 4, 2009 at 4:10 a.m.

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FAYETTEVILLE — Today, Oct. 4, is the official start of the 2009-2010 flu season, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control, but flu viruses seem to be getting a head start.

During the week of Sept. 6-12, nearly 1,400 samples sent for testing were positive for flu. Of those, 99.7 percent were Influenza A, with 49.4 percent of those being H1N1 or swine flu infections, the CDC said.

Though the media's attention has been on swine flu since it was first reported this spring, CDC is reminding people to get flu shots and practice good health habits to avoid seasonal flu.

"Remember that you will need two flu shots this season, one for the seasonal flu and one for the 2009 H1N1 virus," said LaVona Traywick, Ph.D., assistant professor of gerontology for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. "The seasonal flu shot will not protect against the H1N1 virus and the H1N1 vaccine will not protect you against seasonal flu."

Getting a yearly flu shot in the fall is the best way to avoid seasonal flu, according to the CDC, which also recommends good hygiene and common sense to fight both flu virus infections.

First, "cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze," Traywick said. "Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it."

Likewise, making a habit of washing your hands, especially after coughing or sneezing, can prevent the spread of flu. If it's not possible to wash with soap and water, hand sanitizers are effective at killing germs and bacteria.

It's important to avoid close contact with sick people, and if you are sick, staying away from others can keep them healthy. If you've been sick, "the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities," Traywick said.

Many germs enter the body through the eyes, nose and mouth, so keeping your hands away from your face helps prevent the spread of contagions.

Lastly, "wipe off door handles, light switches, and phones with disinfectant wipes on a regular basis," Traywick said.

Seasonal flu and swine flu vaccines aren't expected to be available until mid-October, according to the CDC.

They recommend getting a seasonal flu shot now and the H1N1 vaccination when it becomes available. For more information about flu and vaccines, visit the CDC Web site at http://cdc.gov/Features/Flu/ .

The Cooperative Extension Service is a part of the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture and offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

Living, Pages 15 on 10/04/2009

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