How is this considered the flu season when we've been dealing with it since August? That's because the typical influenza season begins in August and runs all the way until April of the following year. This year we have had to contend with seasonal influenza and the novel H1N1 influenza. Many of you probably wonder "what's the difference?" Each type of influenza has various genetic codes which can change from year to year and enhance their ability to invade our bodies and make us sick.
Now you're thinking, "Great, one more thing to worry about!" Try to relax! Thanks to the efforts of many agencies, you probably know more about flu prevention this year than ever before. Besides, continuous daily stress can release hormones that may weaken your immune system and set you up for illness. Add stressful holiday planning and shopping and it gets harder to stay healthy. So remember to relax, and use your knowledge of prevention and good habits throughout the holiday season to stay well. You still need to get out and exercise to avoid packing on those holiday pounds. Studies show the average American gains eight pounds during the holiday season. The goal is the right kind of calories in the proper proportion. So while one extra cookie here or there won't hurt; consider the effects of all your "one extras." Overall health is a marathon, not a sprint. Being physically fit not only reduces the workload on your heart, it has been linked to boosting and maintaining a healthy immune system.
So enjoy the holidays in health. Remember to wash your hands several times a day, cough and sneeze into your sleeve and don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unclean hands. And if you still have not been vaccinated against either the seasonal flu or the H1N1 variety, it's easier than ever before.
Active duty and TriCare beneficiaries
The 75th Medical Group at Hill Air Force Base has just received a shipment of the H1N1 vaccine. It is available to ALL active duty members and ALL TriCare beneficiaries, not just high risk. Just come by the 75th Medical Group Immunization Clinic. You can call (801) 777-5209 for specific hours of operation. The 75th MDG still has a good supply of seasonal influenza vaccine available to all active duty and TriCare beneficiaries as well.
Davis County Health Department also has plenty of novel H1N1 vaccinations (offered free of charge) and seasonal flu vaccinations (available for $20). See the Davis County Web site for full details at: http://www.daviscountyutah.gov/health/flu/default.cfm.
For more information, please feel free to contact the 75th Medical Group Public Health Office at (801) 777-4514.
Additional information can always be found through the CDC link:
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