Red Mountain Med Spa

Beat the flu Season!

The Arizona Department of Health Services says that about 5 percent to 20 percent of the Arizona population contracts the flu each season, and more than 4,000 people across the state require hospitalization from flu complications. Complications of the flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. Those at particular risk for the flu are young children, anyone 50 or older, and anyone with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or heart disease.

This year, for the first time, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is recommending a near-universal flu vaccination, meaning everyone ages 6 months and older.

To keep your self healthy this flu season, we encourage all of our patients to practice the following cold and flu prevention techniques:

• Get a yearly flu vaccine. This is the first and most important step in protecting yourself against flu viruses.
• Wash your hands with soap and water as often as you can. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This is how germs spread!
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Make sure to throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• If you are sick with a flu-like illness, it is best to stay at home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care or for other necessities.

Additional prevention tips and suggestions:

• Get lots of rest! - Sleep is absolutely crucial for its restorative property. When you sleep, you heal, so try to get about 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
• Vitamin B Shots* or My-B Tabs*! - Not only are these shots and supplements helpful in aiding weight loss, but they also boost your immune system, which may be decreased due to the busy holiday season.
• Stay Hydrated! - To remain healthy and to prevent dehydration, drink 8-9 cups of water a day!
• Take a Twice-Daily Multi-Vitamin*! - This is the easiest way to support your nutrition, lower the risk of common diseases, strengthen your immune system and maintain optimal health.
• Eat Chicken Soup! - If you are feeling under the weather, eat chicken soup! Research suggests that it has anti-inflammatory properties which could explain why it soothes sore throats and eases the misery of colds.

*Available at Red Mountain Med Spa.