Flu seasons are unpredictable, and although only a few states are currently reporting widespread flu outbreaks, it is important to take precautions to prevent getting sick this flu season. For healthy children and adults, influenza is typically a moderately severe illness. The flu virus usually strikes the lungs and damages the lining of the respiratory tract. The tissues become swollen and inflamed, and the flu sufferer can develop a sore throat, dry cough, fever, weakness, loss of appetite and body aches. For people who are older or in poor health, the symptoms suffered by all flu victims can be much more severe.

Each year in the United States 5%-20% of the population gets the flu, and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized due to flu complications. In order to protect yourself from the flu this season, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) suggests a three-step method for reducing your risk: vaccination, every day prevention and antiviral drugs.

Vaccination: Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself against three different types of flu viruses, which vary from year to year. Because the flu season can last as late as May, getting a flu vaccination now might still protect you against the flu.

Everyday Prevention: There are a number of common sense, good health habits that help prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu:

1. Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick, and when you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home from work when you are sick to prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
4. Wash your hands often with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.
6. Drink at least 64 ounces of water each day. Healthy fluid levels aid in flushing toxins, staying alert, burning fat, and regulating body temperature.
7. Keep your workspace clean even if you are the only user. Germs can live on your phone, keyboard and other items, and you risk reinfecting yourself.
8. Eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
9. Take your daily vitamins.
10. Use your vacation days. People who do not take vacations are more likely to become ill.

Antiviral Drugs: If you think you might have the flu or be at risk of being infected by
the flu, visit your doctor to discuss antiviral drugs. Certain antiviral drugs can treat influenza or prevent infection with flu viruses. To effectively treat the flu, antiviral drugs must be started within 48 hours of getting sick. For prevention, antiviral drugs are 70%-90% effective in preventing infection.

Rick Boucher is Congressman for the 9th District of Virginia, which includes the New River Valley. You can catch his Capitol Commentary regularly at the New River Voice.