Dr. Laird reminds her patients that eating a balanced diet, maintaining a regular exercise routine, and getting plenty of rest can improve the ability to fight back when colds and flu strike. Secondly, because the flu season is upon us, talk with your doctor about receiving this year's flu vaccination as soon as possible. Flu effects can be particularly devastating to older persons. Dr. Laird recommends flu shots to most of her patients over the age of 65. For people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or asthma, getting vaccinated against the flu is particularly important.
Flu shots are available at minimal cost in many places throughout the community.
Physician's offices also can provide flu shots. Workers and volunteers in hospitals, day care centers, schools, nursing homes, and other institutions should seriously consider getting vaccinated. For example, persons allergic to eggs should not be vaccinated. The third step in cold and flu prevention is to be aware of how germs spread. It is well known that coughing and sneezing can spread germs.