If you are currently suffering from body aches, chills, fever and other flu symptoms, you are not alone. Influenza continues to increase at a rapid rate throughout Illinois and the nation. Central Illinois is no exception. Flu symptoms include fever,…
Even if your diabetes is well-managed, when people with diabetes (type 1, type 2 or gestational) contract the flu, they are at high risk. Flu complications include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infection, ear infection, diabetic ketoacidosis and worsening of current health…
Many people put a squirt of soap in their hands first. But that’s not the first step. Reduce the spread of infection – especially during flu season – and follow these easy handwashing steps. Wet hands with clean, running water…
It’s a familiar refrain when flu season rolls around: cover your cough; wash your hands and stay home if you feel sick. This year, thanks to COVID-19, every American is already familiar with those infection prevention strategies and more—like wearing…
Suffering from the flu is a costly and potentially dangerous experience, which is why getting vaccinated against the influenza virus is so important. “Some people think the flu is like a common cold, but really, the flu is a lot…
You wash your hands frequently to avoid getting sick, especially as influenza season nears its height. But are you washing them long enough? That quick wash of a few seconds with soap and water may not help as much as…
Chances are this time last year, you or someone you know had already come down with the dreaded flu symptoms. The tired, achy, feel-like-you’ve-just-been-hit-by-a-train kind of feeling. This year, that’s probably not the case. While the standard cold viruses continue…
The flu vaccine can be an emotionally charged topic. While medical experts say it’s the single best way to prevent the flu, others question its effectiveness and worry about potential side effects. So what’s the bottom line? Influenza kills thousands…
We’re in the middle of an especially active flu season—one we hope is almost over. However, it’s not time to call the “all clear” yet. Stay vigilant against the flu for a healthy late winter and early spring. Here are…
That quick wash of a few seconds with soap and water may not help as much as you think – as these three photos reveal. Each photo shows the bacteria growing in a Petri dish after a volunteer pressed his…