Flu Season

WHEN IS FLU SEASON?

The flu, or influenza, makes its appearance on a regular, seasonal basis. Commonly, flu season appears with the onset of cold weather and does not disappear until warm weather has set in. In the United States, the time frame for flu outbreaks is generally from mid October to early May, though this interval may vary depending upon climate conditions. The flu season will typically last longer in the northern part of the United States where temperatures are cooler, and have a shorter duration period in the southern, more tropical states. Generally speaking though, flu season has an active life of approximately 6 months.

WHY IS THERE A FLU SEASON?

While an individual is much more likely to contract the flu during the flu season, flu viruses are active throughout the year. There is no clear definition as to why the flu is more contagious during the cooler months, but some characteristics and results of cold weather point to some possible reasons:

--Cooler temperatures may cause certain viruses and bacteria to remain on surfaces for greater lengths of time than they would in warmer weather.

--People stay behind closed doors for longer periods of time during cooler weather. Because individuals are in closer proximity of each other than they may be in warmer months, and for greater lengths of time, the virus is more easily transmitted.

--Dry air is a result of cooler weather. Dry air results in the drying out of nasal passages and membranes. This dryness can cause the body’s natural methods of ridding itself of viruses and bacteria to lessen significantly.

--The amounts of Vitamin D that our bodies receive from the sun are lessened as the sun is furthest from us. Vitamin D is essential in boosting our body's immune system. When our immune system is lower, we become more susceptible to contracting the flu virus.

HOW TO PREVENT GETTING THE FLU

There are a number of precautions one can take each flu season in an attempt to prevent contracting the virus. Personal hygiene and lifestyle habits contribute greatly as a major defence against the flu. Simple acts like washing your hands or drinking plenty of fluids can reduce your chances of picking up the virus . Not only will hand washing reduce the likelihood of spreading the disease, but it also plays a large role in killing any virus that you have recently been in contact with. Some people wear facemasks during the flu season to prevent from breathing in harmful virus germs. Sanitizing surfaces can also assist in lessening your chances of contracting the flu. By drinking plenty of water and fluids, you are helping to prevent your body from becoming dehydrated. Because dehydration is a determined cause of the flu virus, by keeping your body hydrated, you again are lessening your chances of coming down with the flu. Vaccinations are available before the flu season begins, and are recommended for those who are more susceptible to the flu virus.

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