Influenza, or the flu, as it is commonly known is an illness that affects the upper as well as the lower airway tracts. It’s frequently associated with such symptoms as headaches, body aches and pains, fatigue, and weakness. “With the type of weather that we have been experiencing here at school, it’s hard for one’s body to adjust. This weather can really take a toll on a person’s health. It’s just so easy to catch the flu; students have to be really careful. It’s just so hard to avoid any kind of illness in this type of weather; it’s almost like you know you’re bound to catch something, and no one wants to get sick,” says student Cheleatha Lott. Dr. Glenn Berry of the Franklin Owens Health Center advises students try to stay as healthy as possible with a healthy rotation of salads, vegetables and fruits. Berry also suggests that one of the top ways to resist any type of viral infection this season is a healthy low crab diet, and while you’re enjoying your nutritious low carbs, wash them down with a nice bottle of purified water. “Water is very important, and hydration is important for multiple reasons,” said Berry. Water not only aids in cleansing the kidneys, but it also helps to keep the body hydrated and fluids flowing throughout the body, which in turn helps the body to drain any excess fluids that might usher in viruses.
Another way to cut your chances of coming in contact with this viral infection is to keep your hands and body constantly sanitized. Not only are germs transmitted through direct bodily contact, they can also lie dormant in clothes. Berry advises (especially this time of year), that students wash all articles of clothes after every wear, especially those that are worn frequently.
Not only are sanitation and healthy eating great for the body, but so is exercise. Berry says that exercise is the number one way to fight off any illness in any season. Walking helps to keep blood constantly flowing throughout the body and gives the bones, joints and especially the lungs the adequate amount of oxygen needed to operate properly. “My long term health is very important to me and I also hate getting sick and I especially hate getting the flu, which is why I visit the track as often as possible,” says Junior Shontae Parker. A person who exercises in comparison to one who does not is more likely to decrease their chances of heart attack or stroke as well as their chances of contracting viral infections.
While these are all excellent ways to prevent getting the flu, students should not neglect getting the most important aid, the flu vaccination. Students if you feel that you could be coming down with the flu or have any recognizable symptoms; or if you have any questions about influenza or the vaccination and would like to speak with Dr. Berry or any of the trained professionals in the Franklin Owens health facility you can contact them at (936) 857-2511.