Maintaining good health has never been more important, and as flu season quickly approaches, many of the patients at Best Care Family Practice in Milwaukee, Wisconsin have questions for our doctors, Sergio Casaclang and Sandra Arce-Garzon. We've compiled some helpful information to help you and your family stay healthy through this flu season and beyond.
Isolation
Whenever possible, a sick person in your household should isolate themselves until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours. This would ideally include both a bedroom and a bathroom. For parents who need to care for a sick child, wear a mask and sanitize items that they touch or use - thermometers, cups, even the TV remote - to reduce the risk of other family members getting sick.
Personal hygiene
One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from all sorts of germs, including flu viruses, is by diligently washing your hands throughout the day. This includes before eating, after using the restroom, and any time you've been out in public and return home. Your Milwaukee family practice physician also recommends carrying an alcohol-based hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren't readily available. Avoid eating or drinking after someone else, even if you're both feeling fine.
Flu shots
The effectiveness of a flu vaccine varies from year to year, as well as person to person, but the CDC's latest data shows that flu vaccines reduce the risk of having severe flu symptoms and complications by about 40 to 60 percent. This means that even if the exposure to flu germs causes your child to have symptoms, they're likely to be mild thanks to the vaccine they received at your Milwaukee family practice.
While it can be difficult to stay vigilant about the spread of germs, your efforts definitely do not go unnoticed by the staff at Best Care Pediatrics in Milwaukee. For further questions or to make an appointment for your yearly flu vaccine, contact our family practice at (414) 282-5810.