|
Flu season is back again.
In the past couple of weeks, the number of acute respiratory infections (ARI) - a group of diseases which includes influenza and pneumonia - have hit epidemic levels. The Ministry of Health (MOH) notes in a press release that Singapore "typically experiences an increase in influenza activity in the January to February period." It further notes that 76 per cent (or 4 out of 5 cases) of influenza are caused by the H1N1 virus.
With Chinese New Year just round the corner, the flu bug may spread even further, thanks to the extensive visitations that mark the festive season.
Here is what you need to know about the flu, how to prevent it, and how to recover faster from it.
How you can protect yourself
- Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after handling soiled tissues or contact with people who may have the flu.
- Avoid close contact with people who have the flu.
- Have a proper diet, exercise regularly and get enough sleep to build up your immune system.
- Get regular flu vaccinations to protect yourself from the prevalent strains of influenza.
- (read more)
How to recover faster from the flu
- Rest as much as you can. Get more sleep to help your immune system fight off the infection.
- Stay home. Do not spread your germs to others if you can help it.
- Drink plenty of liquids. Choose plain water, fruit juice or clear soups.
- Eat the right foods. (read more)
| 
