IS A FLU SHOT ENOUGH?
While we believe flu shots are effective for many patients, it is very hard to rely solely on vaccination because each year the flu is a different form with possible non-protected strains. It is not necessary for everyone to run out and get a flu shot. However, high-risk people and those who care for anyone in those groups should be vaccinated.
The best way for a low-risk person to avoid the flu is to maintain proper hygiene and be clean. Wash your hands often, and when you do, use hot water. In a public restroom, make sure you limit your exposure by having a paper towel ready before washing your hands and using the paper towel to turn off the faucet. Use the paper towel to open the door, too. Always consider washing your hands before eating, after being around someone who is sick, and before touching your eyes. This can help prevent catching the flu, common cold, and strep throat. You also can help prevent illness by avoiding standing close to someone who is infected, since diseases can spread when someone sneezes or coughs. Many illnesses spread through saliva, so don’t share drinks, food or toothbrushes with anyone else, even if they don’t look or feel sick.
Stress also can play a part in causing sickness and can additionally cause canker sores or painful mouth irritations. Stress can lower the immune system, making it easier to become sick and more difficult to recover. There are many quick and easy ways to ease stress, such as talking to a friend about your problems, watching a funny movie, exercising, playing with a pet, or finding a hobby.
The best way to stay healthy is to do what we have been told all our lives: eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest.
So while the flu shot can be an effective preventative measure for some, it is more important to look at your overall health picture. A balanced, low-stress approach to the season will more likely keep you out of the sick-bed than any other measure.
Guido Gores, MD