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Protect Yourself Against the Flu and RSV
Posted on by Paula Gallagher
Experts are expecting cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza to surge this winter season, and in many parts of the country they are already seeing spikes in the number of children with these illnesses.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs) in children younger than 1 year of age in the United States. In most cases, healthy children and adults can recover from RSV at home, but in severe cases some may need oxygen and IVs to prevent dehydration. RSV is highly contagious and is transmitted through droplets. It is so common that it is estimated that most infants have contracted it by the age of 2.
Symptoms of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)*
- Runny nose
- Decreased appetite
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Wheezing
Influenza
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. Some people, such as those 65 years and older, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk of serious flu complications.
There are two main types of human influenza viruses, types A and B, that routinely spread in people and are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. The flu is spread person to person through droplets.
Symptoms of the Flu
- Fever or chills (note that fever is not always present with flu)
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
Prevention
Although a vaccine for flu prevention is available, there is no vaccine for RSV. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to help prevent contracting either of these viruses.
1. Wash Your Hands
One of the most important things to do is thoroughly wash your hands after touching public surfaces, and do so throughout the day. Killing bad germs requires more than a rinse, though. Wash your hands with soap for a minimum of 20-30 seconds, and include between your fingers, beneath fingernails, and a few inches up each forearm for good measure.
2. Mask Up
One of the reasons experts believe RSV and the flu are up is because Covid restrictions are gone. Unfortunately, sick people do not always stay home or show signs of having unwanted illnesses. A face mask can help to reduce the transmission of viruses.
3. Don’t Touch Your Face
Germs are easily spread through eyes, mouth and nose.
4. Cover Coughs
Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your upper shirt sleeve, not your hands.
5. Keep Your Distance
Avoid close contact, such as kissing, shaking hands, and sharing cups and eating utensils with others... especially if you know they are sick.
6. Clean Surfaces
Clean frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs and mobile devices. RSV can live on hard surfaces for hours and the flu virus can live on hard surfaces for up to 2 days.
Boost Your Immune System
A healthy immune system may not always prevent you from catching the flu or RSV, but it may help you recover more quickly. Healthy lifestyle choices can go a long way in protecting you against serious affects of many illnesses.
Nutritional supplements can also give your immune system the extra boost it needs during cold and flu season. Some of the most important nutrients that directly influence the immune system include vitamins A, C, D, E and the B vitamins, as well as zinc and selenium. These nutrients help to support the body’s physical barrier against pathogens, promote cellular health, support the immune response, provide antioxidant protection, and have anti-inflammatory effects. While a healthy diet can supply these nutrients, many people still have deficiencies in these key vitamins and minerals. Because nutrient deficiencies are one of the most common causes of depressed immunity, taking high-quality nutritional supplements daily is strongly recommended.
A comprehensive multivitamin, vitamin D, fish oil and probiotics are extremely important to create a solid base for building your supplement regimen. During the cold and flu season, incorporating the following 3 immune supporting supplements could also be helpful. Before taking any supplements, please consult with a health care practitioner to make sure they are right for you.
- Pathway Immune System Support – 2 capsules three times daily with food. This comprehensive formula features important vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, herbs and mushrooms to help strengthen and optimize immune system health.
- Pathway Buffered C with Citrus Bioflavonoids – 1 tablet twice daily with food. Buffered C provides antioxidant and inflammation support and is a key nutrient necessary for optimal immune activity. This formula combines calcium and magnesium to gently deliver vitamin C as a non-acidic form, and also features citrus bioflavonoids for added benefit.
- Elderberry Syrup – 2 tsp daily. Elderberries provide a rich source of antioxidant compounds that have been studied for their antiviral and immune-enhancing benefits. This great tasting syrup can be taken daily for ongoing support, and increased when more acute immune strengthening is needed.
* The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
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