This is a digitally-colorized, negative-stained transmission electron microscopic image that shows Influenza A virus particles. Most of us know this pathogen as the flu virus which typically reaches peak prevalence around this time of year. Each year, approximately 5% to 20% of Americans come down with the flu and complications result in more than 200,000 hospitalizations and roughly between 3,000 and 49,000 deaths each year. That is why we have complied a unique list that can improve your chances of avoiding the flu this season:
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1) Your phone
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1) Your phone
If you’re on your phone right now, you probably know that your cell phone carries a lot of germs. Disinfect your phone and your digits. Remember, pathogens that normally live in poop can live on your digits and your phone too.
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2) Honey
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2) Honey
Raw organic honey helps control cough just as well if not better than some over the counter cough suppressants. It also has antibacterial properties!
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3) Wear socks
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3) Wear socks
When your feet get cold, your entire body gets cold, including your nose and mouth. What your body is doing is protecting you from losing heat by redirecting blood to your vital organs, this can actually decrease blood flow to the nose, where viruses ad bugs live year round.
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4) Get the Flu vaccine
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4) Get the Flu vaccine
There is a reason why each healthcare worker gets their annual flu shot. Although many have questioned their effectiveness, if you got the flu shot and still get the flu, the duration of symptoms will be shorter and sometimes milder than if you did not get the vaccine.
To read more about how to prevent the flu, visit this link!
Happy Friday ladies and gentlemen!
#MEDspiration
Written by: Navpreet Singh Badesha
© 01/19/2018 All Rights Reserved.
Image Credit: CDC Public Health Image Library
Image Credit: CDC Public Health Image Library