How to Avoid the Flu Naturally

As you may know this is flu season and the current predominant strain (H3N2) is especially virulent and is possibly more contagious than other forms.  It is currently widespread through all of the continental United States and has not yet peaked.  For those of us living in Florida we need to be even more vigilant since we now have our winter visitors arriving from all over the country, usually by plane, which are marvelous environments for spreading germs. Adults with school age children or working in healthcare have a higher risk of being exposed. This year’s flu vaccine is only 30% effective at best.  New studies have shown that this strain may spread through even smaller droplets of aerosolized spittle so for an infected individual even talking and breathing in close proximity (within six feet) of others could spread the infection.

Preventative steps to take:

1. Wash your hands frequently with hot water and antibacterial soap for at least twenty seconds, paying special attention to your thumbs (they often don’t get washed well enough) and washing to two inches above your wrist line.  When running water is not available use a hand sanitizer. 2. Clean common surfaces like doorknobs and phones frequently with an antiviral, antibacterial surface cleaner.  My favorite is an all natural product called Citrus II. 3) If you are elderly, infirm, or have a compromised immune system consult your physician about getting a flu vaccine. (Request a single dose bottle, not a multi dose.) 4) Be proactive with immune support products like Vitamins C & A and minerals zinc & selenium.  Herbal formulas containing ingredients like echinacea, elderberry, ashwagandha, reishi, astragalus and others may be helpful.  My two favorite products are Immuno Plus and Virex HO, both by Nutriwest.  Another good product is Wellness Formula by Source Naturals. 5) Eat well and avoid mucus producing foods like dairy and sweets. 6) Stay hydrated! 7) Get plenty of rest. 8) When possible avoid large groups of people or consider wearing a surgical mask. 9) If you start to have flu symptoms like such as a sudden fever, cough, body aches and headache — check with your doctor. You might benefit from an anti-viral medication (those work just fine against this year’s H3N2 strain, testing shows, although supplies are beginning to be diminished so you may have to go to multiple pharmacies to find it). There is a homeopathic remedy called Ocillococcinum that is commonly prescribed for flu and may be helpful.  Remember to cover your coughs and sneezes and if you are sick enough to suspect flu, STAY HOME! 10) For the time being it may be best to minimize physical displays of affection like hugs, kisses and even handshakes.  Fist bumps and smiles and waves communicate our caring just as well. 11) Consult your local holistic physician about what you can do to bring your body into optimum balance so that if you are exposed to the flu your chances of fighting it off with minimal impact are improved.  At Sanibel Wellness we have a homeopathic injection that strengthens the immune system and has been clinically shown to reduce the incidence of cold and flu. For more information visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/index.html.