November 19 , 2004

How to avoid the flu without a flu shot

With flu season coming and a shortage of vaccines, people from all age groups are concerned about protecting themselves from the flu. MGH Senior HealthWISE and the Blum Patient and Family Learning Center recently addressed this topic at one of the monthly Senior HealthWISE seminars. "Flu Season Without a Flu Shot: What Do I Need to Know?" held Nov. 16 in the Walcott Conference Rooms, was tailored for seniors from the surrounding community, but the information on flu protection can be applied to the MGH community as a whole.

Paula Wright, RN, of the Infection Control Unit, spoke about what the flu is, how it differs from the common cold, how to find out if one has the flu, how it spreads and what to do to prevent the flu. "The flu will definitely have you in bed," said Wright. "The best way to prevent this is to wash your hands. It is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of germs."

Good health habits also can help prevent the flu and include getting adequate sleep, exercising, managing stress and maintaining a healthy diet. Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth, especially after coming in contact with surfaces that could contain the influenza virus.

Frank Bellistri, GNP, nurse practitioner from the Senior HealthWISE program, spoke about what to do if one gets sick, when to visit a physician, when to seek urgent care and what a doctor can do to help. "People do not die from the flu itself," said Bellistri. "They die from complications like pneumonia or bronchitis. Seniors 65 years and older have a greater risk of complications."

Bellistri recommends contacting a primary care physician when symptoms arise and taking antiviral medications prescribed by a doctor to decrease the length of illness.

" If symptoms appear, call your doctor," said Bellistri. "Call early and be seen by your doctor as quickly as possible."

Above, Barbara Moscowitz, LICSW, of MGH Senior Health, left, introduces Wright.