Flu Season Is Here! Six Flu Facts You Should Know

Flu season is upon us once again, with all the fun stuff that goes along with it. If you're wondering exactly what flu is, and if you can prevent it, read these flu facts to learn more. 1. What Is Influenza? Influenza, or "flu" for short, is a very contagious virus that settles in the nose, throat, and lungs. It's much worse than a cold, with high fevers, headaches, muscle aches, weakness, and tiredness. Some people fight the bug off quickly, but others aren't so lucky. The elderly, the very young, and folks with chronic health conditions are more prone to developing complications, including life-threatening cases of pneumonia. 2. When Is Flu Season? It varies from year to year. People may start getting sick as early as October, but the peak months are usually January and February. The season can last into March and April. 3. Is The Flu Contagious? It sure is. It's spread by people coughing and sneezing, and also by using an item an infected person has touched. You can get it if you're within six feet of someone who has it. It's pretty hard to avoid it if you have contact with people at all, which is why it sweeps through schools, nursing homes, and workplaces, seemingly at the speed of light. 4. How Long Is Flu Contagious? You can spread it a day before you start feeling sick. Since it takes one to four days for symptoms to start, you can pass it on before you even know you're sick. Feel like Typhoid Mary yet? After you're sick, you can share it for another five to seven days. Sick kids can spread it for even longer. 5. How To Prevent The Flu Unless you can move to the middle of the Sahara Desert, you will more than likely be exposed to the virus before winter is over. Washing your hands often is probably the best means of prevention. But it's pretty hard to avoid getting infected during a major outbreak. 6. How To Strengthen The Immune System A daily walk will boost your immune system. People who get out for a half-hour walk nearly every day are half as likely to get sick during the winter. Regular exercise also lowers stress levels, too, which helps to keep you healthier. Eat lots of fresh fruits and veggies. They're loaded with the nutrients you need to maintain your health. Add garlic to your diet as well. This pungent bulb has strong antiviral properties. If you can't tolerate it fresh, try a garlic supplement. Vitamin C is also recommended. If you fall victim to the bug, it will help you fight it off faster. You may not be able to avoid the flu bug completely, but if it does manage to bite, you'll bounce back faster if you follow this advice.