According to the CDC's latest report the USA's flu epidemic continues to spread with an increase in every state and a dozen new deaths among children, according to Nancy Cox, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's influenza division.
Nationally, 49 states reported widespread influenza this week. Florida is the only state not reporting widespread influenza; it is at the regional level, a step down.
Though a flu season's duration can't be predicted, the latest numbers "suggest we may be nearing the peak," Cox said. And this season a mismatch in the current flu vaccine covers only one of the three active flu strains, leaving people with less protection against two of the circulating strains.
"To prevent getting the flu, you want to raise your immune system," says Steven Lamm, MD, of New York University's School of Medicine. "Your whole nutrient state is at stake -- take vitamin D, vitamin C/Ester-C. Do not go to work if you are sick as you will be highly contagious."
Immune health expert, Mark Moyad, MD, University of Michigan, adds, "Now is the time to be ever more vigilant about protecting yourself from the flu, and there are things you can do that will help." Dr. Moyad's stay-well tips, which apply year-round as well, are below:
-- Wash your hands. Carry hand sanitizers with you at all times
-- Take vitamin C/Ester-C -- shown to boost immunity: 500 - 1000 mgs daily
-- Stay hydrated. Drinking fluids helps flush out impurities in the system
-- Avoid direct contact with anyone who is sick
-- Sleep -- being rested is one of the body's best defense mechanisms
Dr. Moyad also stresses the importance of proper nutrition and regular exercise as ways to stave off illness and keep the immune system operating at optimal levels.
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