31/01/2025
Flu is running amuck in both Rock Springs and Green River!
What can you do to keep yourself healthy?
Get your flu shot every year. While it cannot protect you from getting Flu altogether it can help lesson symptoms and decrease the chances of contracting Flu. Generally Flu shots become available in September. Every year a new Flu shot is produced that is targeted to the strains of Flu that are most likely to circulate. By now it isn’t as beneficial to get the Flu shot because the Flu is already circulating around the community.
Wash your hands frequently to avoid picking up virus on your hands. Avoid touching your face, particularly when you are in public and are more likely to pick up something on your hands. Avoid prolonged interactions with people who are currently sick.
What should you do if you get sick?
Flu tests are available over the counter if you want to avoid a trip to the doctor but would like to know if you have the Flu. At K-Pack our tests are $21 for a pack of 2 tests!
Your doctor can prescribe you Tamiflu (Oseltamivir) if you are positive for the Flu. They may prefer to see you in office as well even if you test positive with an over the counter test. Tamiflu works by decreasing how quickly the virus can reproduce in your body making it easier for your body to recover. Providers can also prescribe Tamiflu to help prevent you from getting the flu if you know that you are exposed, however not everyone meets requirements for this usage, talk to your doctor if you think you should take it preventatively. Generally this usage is reserved for high risk individuals.
Get lots of rest and allow yourself time to recover. Humidifiers can help with excessive mucus production and dry nasal passages. Saline sprays can also provide the same nasal support. Flonase or other nasal steroids can provide some relief from stuffiness but may cause bloody noses. Drink plenty of water and eat as healthy as you can. If you feel nauseous you can try drinking small amounts of water, or an electrolyte solution like Pedialyte and using over-the-counter medications like Tums or Pepto Bismol. Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Advil (Ibuprofen) can help with fever and aches, but may not be appropriate for all people. Give us a call if you are unsure if you can take these medications.
Cough and cold products are mostly the same ingredients under different names. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) can help dry up mucus and Mucinex (guaifenesin) can help loosen mucus if it is too thick. Delsym or Robitussin (Dextromethorphan) can help with cough along with cough drops, particularly those with a numbing agent like benzocaine in them. You can check the active ingredients on your package to find out what is in it. Keep in mind that many combo products already contain Tylenol. Check the active ingredient list before you take multiple products to make sure you’re not doubling up on a medication. Keep your eyes open for our next post for more information on Cough and Cold products!
Give us a call if you have any questions about the Flu! Stay healthy!
307-875-6722
