There’s one season that is no one’s favorite, and it’s no other than flu season. Generally, the flu begins picking up steam during the fall and winter months, but it’s not unusual to see the pesky virus during other seasons.

Did you know that the flu is more deadly if you suffer with asthma? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone that suffers with asthma issues, whether mild or severe, are at a higher risk of catching the flu.

Here’s a few steps that can protect asthma sufferers during flu season:

Flu Vaccine Shot – This may seem like an “of course” prevention, but in recent years people have strayed away from getting a routine flu shot. This option is available for persons 6 months and older, regardless of your history of asthma. Did you know that most health care providers offer flu shots for free? Consider this the next time you pass by your friendly neighborhood pharmacy!
Nasal Spray Vaccinations – This preventative measure is less talked about but is still very useful in the fight against the flu! Anyone between the ages of 2 through 49 who are not pregnant can receive this version of the flu vaccine, especially if you don’t like the idea of needles. It is important to check with the doctor before choosing this option because this method may increase the chance of wheezing.
Pneumococcal Vaccines – Anyone who is at risk for pneumococcal diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis and infections in the bloodstream, may want to consider this option against the flu virus. Please note that you can only get this type of vaccine or the original, but not both.

The flu shot is the best option to protect you from the flu, but other viruses –like the common cold -- can enter your body and cause you to experience “flu-like” symptoms that can trigger asthmatic issues. Here’s a few things to further protect yourself from nasty surprises during flu season:

Take your asthma medication as directed by your doctor or physician.
Be aware of your asthma triggers and avoid areas that would cause you to have an asthma attack.
Discuss and follow an Asthma Action Plan with your doctor or physician.
If you’re a parent to a child with asthma, make sure you mention the Asthma Action Plan with your child’s pediatrician and follow-up with your school or daycare to make sure they have the plan on file.

The flu virus does not discriminate with age, so make sure you are aware of any and all symptoms which include: fever, sore throat, runny or stuffed nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. If you think you or your family member has the flu, seek emergency care immediately because antiviral drug treatments work best up to 48 hours after the first sign of symptoms.

Don’t forget to wash your hands frequently, cough and sneeze into your shirt or arm, and avoid people who are sick to keep the flu far away.

Story Image: Adult using an asthma inhaler. (NIAID/ Wikimedia Commons)
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Source: Centers For Disease Control and Prevention

Asthma, Influenza and You: Staying Safe From The Flu