The Flu Fighter's Guide: Prevention, Treatment and Recovery from Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly infectious respiratory virus that affects millions of people worldwide each year. 

Characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue, influenza poses a significant challenge to public health, especially among vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, and those with chronic health conditions.

Understanding the Virus

The flu spreads easily from person to person, primarily when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Symptoms can appear suddenly and vary from mild to severe and can sometimes lead to hospitalization, especially in high-risk groups.

Fighting Back: Treatment Options

Treatment for influenza primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Antiviral medications, like Tamiflu or Xofluza, can be effective if started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. These medications can shorten the duration of symptoms and are especially important for high-risk individuals.

Additional treatment measures include:

• Staying hydrated-drink plenty of water then drink some more! This will help alleviate a headache or body aches. Try adding Liquid IV, LMNT or another electrolyte mix to your water for some added taste and a boost of electrolytes.  
• Rest-one of the most important things you can do for your body is rest.
• Medications-Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be taken to reduce fever and alleviate body aches.

The Best Defense: Prevention Tips



Preventing the spread of influenza is key to protecting yourself and your community. The most effective prevention strategy is the annual flu vaccine, recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older.

Other preventive measures include:

• Regular hand washing with soap and water
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
• Staying home when you are sick to prevent spreading the virus to others
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated

Understanding influenza and taking steps towards prevention can significantly reduce the impact of the virus.

We hope that you and your family stay healthy this season but, if you or someone in your family has the flu, Saving Grace is here to help! We offer both in-home and telemedicine visits in select cities in Oklahoma and Kansas.