Is it a cold? Is it the flu? Is it an allergy? And do I stay at home?

"Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness..." and in my office it is the season for giving FluMist (nasal spray) or Flu Shots to the majority of my patients. It used to be a must-have preventive vaccine for those most at risk, like asthmatics, diabetics, people over 65 and young children. Now most people want to be vaccinated so they can feel more protected when they go about their normal work and travel plans during the fall and winter seasons.

Another good reason to be vaccinated is to stop the spread of the influenza virus to those around you and in the community. This year's vaccine covers three strains of the virus out there, including the H1N1. Some people with low immunity can develop infections from the flu or pneumonia so it is very important that we all responsibly take action to protect them and ourselves. Suppose you do find yourself with a runny nose, sneezing, nasal itching, watery eyes and you do not know what to do. You may actually be suffering from nasal allergy symptoms and require an allergy medicine, (tablet or inhaler).

Or you may be running a slight temperature and you are sneezing, coughing and feeling generally run down.

You need to make decisions:
Do I go to work?
Do I go to the doctor?

Normally, I would say that if you are unable to perform your duties well because of your health condition and if you are sneezing and coughing, then it is best to stay at home as you can be contagious. Germs circulate rapidly.

If after two to three days of resting, drinking plenty of liquids, eating chicken soup, breathing in fresh air, maybe taking over-the-counter flu medications to relieve the symptoms you are still feeling the same then you should go to your doctor to check if you have an infection that can be treated by antibiotics.

The best way to prevent flu is always to remember to :
1) Wash your hands regularly
2) Exercise and keep active
3) Eat nutritious meals with plenty of fruit and vegetables
4) Drink plenty of fluids (but try to avoid sodas and sugary drinks)
5) Get good sleep and rest

and don't forget your flu shot.
If in any doubt, call or email your doctor's office for personal advice.