If you think you've been hearing a lot more about the flu this year, you're right. According to the CDC, this year's flu season is the most rampant on record since they started tracking the flu 13 years ago. Although this year's strands appear to be nastier than most, the general symptoms remain the same. These include:
-Fatigue or tiredness
-Muscle and/or body aches
-Sore throat
-Fever (although not everyone with the flu will have a fever)
-Chills
-Cough
-Headaches
-Runny and/or stuffy nose
-Vomiting and diarrhea (usually more common in children than adults)
What can you do to help keep the flu at bay?
-Wash your hands! Especially after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, or spending time around individuals who are ill.
-Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and/or mouth
-Get enough sleep so your body isn't worn down and can fight off infection
-Use tissues when coughing and sneezing and throw them away immediately after use.
-Avoid sharing objects and food with others
-Get a flu vaccine (its never too late in the season!)
-Stay away from people who you know are ill.
-Reduce your stress level so you body can fight off infection
-Eat right and exercise regularly
Most importantly, if you do become ill, stay home to help stop the spread!