Bartlett Regional | HouseCalls | Late Fall 2016

It’s a fact that families share more than just quality time together—they share some unwelcome germs too. A cold or flu in one family member often means that sickness will soon make the rounds at home. However, these tips can help your family stay well. Practice prevention The best way to prevent the flu is for everyone, starting at age 6 months, to get an annual flu vaccine. Also, some people—including those with chronic health problems or people 65 and older—may need a vaccination against bacterial pneumonia. While there isn’t a cold vaccine yet, you can remind everyone to practice these healthy habits: w w Keep your distance from sick people. w w Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow. w w Wash your hands often with warm water and soap. Scrub them well for about 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice). Use paper towels to dry your hands. When sickness strikes To ease cold and flu symptoms: w w Get lots of rest, especially while a fever is present. w w Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and clear soups. w w Gargle with warm salt water to relieve TIPS for families a sore throat, or use sprays or lozenges. You also can try over-the-counter medicines for a headache, stuffy nose, cough and other symptoms. However, kids and teens should not take aspirin—it may increase their risk for a serious disease called Reye’s syndrome. And nonprescription cold medicines may not be safe for younger children. Also, you can ask your doctor about antiviral medicines to help you recover more quickly from the flu. Most people recover from colds or the flu within two weeks. Seek a doctor’s advice for symptoms such as a high fever, illness that lasts for 10 days or longer, or any breathing problems. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American Lung Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Stay-well Take your best shot at avoiding the flu Where to go in Juneau Flu shots are available at several places in the City and Borough of Juneau, including most pharmacies and the Juneau Public Health Center. Anyone under age 30 can get a flu shot for a fee based on a sliding scale at the Juneau Public Health Center at 3412 Glacier Highway. Recipients must be at least 13 years old and with a parent or guardian if under 18. Flu shots are on-hand for a nominal fee at pharmacies in Costco, Safeway and Fred Meyer. Flu shots are free to state employees at Safeway. Private health care providers also administer flu shots, which are covered by most insurance programs. Bartlett Regional Hospital administers flu shots to staff and eligible patients. 10 HouseCalls Late Fall 2016