Fight the Flu. It Is Up to You!

by Trish Kelleher, RN

Did you know this year marks the 100 anniversary of the Spanish Flu? A flu so serious that it would claim more lives than World War I. We have learned a lot in these 100-years but the flu is still a threat. With another flu season upon us, it is time to take precautions for our own health and those in our families as well. The good news is that there are simple things we can do to reduce the risk of catching the flu this year.

Those most at risk for flu-like complications include children, pregnant women and adults over the age of 65. People of any age with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, neurological and neuromuscular conditions and weakened immune systems are also at increased risk.

1. Wash your hands…and often! By washing your hands with warm soap and water throughout the day can help lower your risk of contracting or spreading the virus.
2. Don’t touch our face! Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This is the quickest way to spread germs.
3. Get the flu shot. The flu shot cannot prevent against every strain of the virus, however, getting the vaccine can help stop the spread and weaken symptoms that could occur if one contracts the flu.
4. Get plenty of sleep. Our bodies need seven-to-eight hours of sleep to stimulate an immune response to attack the virus. Getting that extra sleep can make a world of a difference.
5. If you do get the flu, stay home. The CDC recommends if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms to stay home for at least 24-hours after your fever is gone, except leaving your home to receive medical care.

Trish Kelleher, RN is the Public Health Nurse for NVNA and Hospice. She leads a flu-fighting team of caregivers who provide flu shots at town halls, employers and other locations. NVNA and Hospice’s charitable mission is to provide quality home health care, wellness and public health services in the community. They provide the full continuum of care from home health, palliative, hospice and the Pat Roche Hospice Home in Hingham to private duty services to support patients and families. This non-profit also provides wellness and public health services through NVNA SUPPORTS in 27 communities, from Milton to Plymouth. Visit https://www.nvna.org/ to learn more.

Residents of Norwell, Massachusetts can participate in the following flu clinics:

October 17: Norwell Gardens 11-12  399 Washington St  in the community room for residents of Norwell Gardens only.

October 17: Norwell Council of Aging 293 Pine St. 1:30-3:30 pm for Norwell residents ages 60 and over.

October 24: Norwell Town Hall 345 Main St for Norwell residents ages 18 and over. 5-7 p.m.