Annual flu epidemic hits early with Utah seeing a high number of cases

The yearly flu or influenza epidemic is hitting the United States early this year and Utah is seeing particularly high levels of flu activity.

Not to be confused with the stomach flu, the flu or influenza is a viral infection that targets your upper respiratory system. Symptoms can include body aches, fever, coughing, and nasal congestion. The flu not only leaves you feeling terrible for a few days, but it is particularly dangerous for babies, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems. This year the flu has already claimed the lives of 15 children in the United States.

Flu vaccines – your best bet

It is not too late to get a flu vaccine. The vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from the flu.

• Flu Shots: Fact and Fiction
• Types of Flu Vaccines and Who Should Get Them

Hand washing and flu prevention

It is always a good idea to wash your hands frequently, but during flu season it is even more critical. Next to flu vaccines, it is one of the most important things you can do to ward off the flu.

• Don’t Give Up On Getting Your Kids to Wash Their Hands
• Things You Can Do To Prevent the Flu
• How to Fight Germs When You’re Not There

Treating the flu

If your family does get hit by the flu, here are some things you can do to make yourself more comfortable or even shorten the duration of the viral infection.

• Natural Cold and Flu Remedies (great for small children who can’t take cold medication)
• The Ultimate Cold and Flu Survival Guide
• The 123′s of Cold and Flu Relief