Influenza A

The Flu: Is It Worth Getting the Vaccine?
It's that time of year again: flu season. And with the flu, you're always rolling the dice. Will it be a mild case of sniffles and a sore throat? Or will it be a full-blown case of fever, chills, and body aches that leave you bedridden for days?
If you're like me, you'd rather not take any chances. That's why I always get the flu vaccine.
I know, I know. The flu vaccine is not 100% effective. But even if it only reduces my chances of getting the flu by 50%, that's still a pretty good deal.
Plus, the flu vaccine is safe. Sure, you might have a sore arm for a day or two, but that's a small price to pay for peace of mind.
So if you're not already vaccinated against the flu, I urge you to do so. It's the best way to protect yourself from this nasty virus.
Here are some other tips for avoiding the flu:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home from work or school if you're sick.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
Get plenty of rest and fluids.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of getting the flu. But if you do get sick, don't panic. The flu is usually not a serious illness. Most people recover within a week or two.
However, if you have any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor right away:

Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Confusion
Bluish skin
Vomiting
Diarrhea

These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious illness, such as pneumonia.
So, don't let the flu ruin your season. Get vaccinated and follow these tips to stay healthy.