Canadians are no strangers to sore throat and runny nose. Winter in the hemisphere north can be fierce, and more often than not, so is the flu. Still this year, health experts are predicting a “particularly nasty” influenza season.
While winter does not officially start till December 21st, influenza season is already well under way here in Canada. Throughout the next few months, self-care will be essential and that is why the Public Health Agency of Canada is encouraging the public to adopt a well-balanced routine and suitable health habits. According to their recommendations, eating healthy, washing hands regularly, sleeping enough and exercising daily can prevent or control influenza activity.
As for those in contact with high risk individuals such has children and elders, it is strongly advice to get vaccinated. Frederictonian Kayli Jones, says this year she plans on doing so.
“I do take the flu shot. I have elderly parents that I take care of, and so I rather take the vaccination than to risk getting them sick,” she says.
That being said, it is important to remember that none of these methods are guaranteed. If severe symptoms of the influenza appear, specialists direct Canadians to take time to rest, and to stay home to avoid widespread contagion.
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