Protecting Yourself and Others During Seasonal Flu and Swine Flu Seasons

As the flu season approaches, there are many questions regarding the seasonal flu and swine flu. In order to be properly prepared to protect yourselves and others from this flu season, it's important to know the difference between seasonal flu, swine flu and cold symptoms. A cold is a milder respiratory illness than the seasonal flu and swine flu. While cold symptoms can make you feel bad for a few days, seasonal flu and swine flu symptoms can make you feel quite ill for a few days to weeks. The flu, whether it's a typical seasonal flu or the swine flu virus, can also result in serious health problems such as pneumonia and hospitalizations. According to the website, www.flu.gov, here are the symptoms related to each condition.
See chart below:

Common Cold Symptoms
sore throat
runny nose
congestion
cough

Seasonal Flu
fever
cough
sore throat
body aches
headaches
chills

Swine Flu
fever
cough
sore throat
body aches
headaches
chills
vomiting
diarrhea

Now, since you know the major differences in their symptoms, what is the most effective way to protect yourself and others from the season flu and swine flu. First, wash hands often and keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer handy for times your unable to get to a sink. Next, shield coughs and sneezes by using a tissue or use the fold of your arm to shield the cough or sneeze. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to avoid the spread of germs. If your sick, stay at home and give yourself time to heal. Get ample sleep, drink plenty of fluids and eat well. Last, getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself from influenza. The 2009 seasonal flu vaccine is expected to arrive in late September or early October.

I have obtain a few "frequently asked questions regarding flu season" from the CDC website.

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding flu season:

What about Swine Flu vaccine?

The U.S. government is working closely with CDC scientists to develop a vaccine. Making vaccine is a multi-step process which takes several months to complete. The vaccine is scheduled to be released in mid to late October if testing continues to goes well.

Can the seasonal vaccine and the swine flu vaccine be given at the same time?

It is anticipated that seasonal flu and swine flu vaccines may be administered on the same day. However, the seasonal vaccine will be available earlier than the swine flu vaccine. You are encouraged to get your seasonal flu vaccine as soon as it is available.

I hope this will help you and your love ones make it through this flu season. If you need more information or if you have further questions, please go to the CDC website at www.cdc.gov or go to www.flu.gov.