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HOO’s HEALTHY
COLD & FLU MYTHS Colds and flu are upper respiratory illnesses caused by viruses. There is no cure for colds or the flu, so prevention is important. However, there are some misconceptions about these illnesses that seem to persist. Let’s clear those up so you have the best chance possible of keeping your family happy and healthy during cold and flu season.
MYTH: Once you have had a cold or the flu, you are immune for the rest of the season.
FACT: Yes, keeping your distance from someone displaying symptoms is wise. However, colds and the flu can be contagious even before the person infected shows symptoms. Also, it is possible for flu and cold viruses to live for short periods of time on hard surfaces, like doorknobs. Use frequent hand washing to help prevent the spread of colds and the flu. For everyone 6 months and older, getting a flu shot every year is an important step in preventing the flu.
MYTH: Taking vitamin C or echinacea can help prevent catching colds and the flu.
FACT: Unfortunately there can be more than one variation of the flu virus being passed around during flu season, and just because you catch one version of the virus does not make you immune to all of the different MYTH: If you stay away from people who have cold or strains of flu viruses. The same goes for colds, since there are many different viruses that can cause cold symptoms. flu symptoms, you won’t catch it.
FACT: Vitamin C and echinacea won’t help prevent catching cold or the flu or do much to help to shorten the duration of the illness. However, if you see your doctor right away when you start experiencing flu symptoms, you may be prescribed an anti-viral medication that helps shorten the duration and severity of the flu.
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