Stop Colds, Flu from Spreading 12/17/03

MANHATTAN, Kan. - Flu season, which normally peaks in late January, is early this year. And, because it is preceding, rather than following, the holiday season, people attending holiday events may increase their exposure to colds and flu, said Mike Bradshaw, Kansas State University Research and Extension health and safety specialist.

Colds and the flu, a short name for influenza, can be spread through a cough, sneeze or touch, even before symptoms become apparent, said Bradshaw, who offered these tips for reducing the spread of the viral infections:

Want to stay healthy?

During cold and flu season, consider saying "Hello" in lieu of shaking hands, said Mike Bradshaw, K-State Research and Extension health and safety specialist.

Colds and flu can be spread through touch, as well as a cough or a sneeze.

Try to avoid people who are sick. If, for example, you’re in a public place such as an auditorium or a movie theater and someone near you starts coughing or sneezing, move away, Bradshaw said.

Wash hands frequently, so as not to spread or catch any viruses that you may have come in contact with.

"Use hot water and soap. If that’s not available, consider a hand sanitizer or towelette," he said.

Drink plenty of fluids, make sure fruits and vegetables are on the menu, and allow time for adequate rest.

"A flu shot can prevent the flu or lessen the severity of flu symptoms. General health, nutrition and lifestyle -- such as drinking plenty of fluids, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and getting adequate rest -- can influence recovery," Bradshaw said.

(For more information on personal health and safety, contact the local K-State Research and Extension office or visit Extension’s website: http://www.oznet.ksu.edu.)

* If you’re sick, stay home. Try to isolate yourself from other family members.

* If you feel a cough or sneeze coming on, do so into a tissue and then dispose of it.

"Minimizing the spread of colds and flu can be difficult for families. Children can be exposed at school or in day care and then expose others," said Bradshaw, who advised parents to try to keep a sick child separated from other family members.

"If children are sick, postpone holiday get-togethers. While children can be hard hit by the infections, grandparents and others who are older can be at an increased risk, too. The immune system declines with age and can be weakened by chronic illnesses or medical treatments," he said.

"Adults may experience cold or flu symptoms for a week. Children may experience symptoms for two weeks," Bradshaw said.

K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus, Manhattan.