Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Healthwatch, we've been talking about how you can protect yourself and your family from the flu. The most obvious way is to be vaccinated. The very young, the very old and those with chronic health problems are most at risk. The spread of the virus can be hindered if more people are vaccinated, but health officials are asking healthy people to delay vaccination until high-risk individuals have their chance.
Previously, we discussed how washing your hands frequently can protect you against the flu. Doctors at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas say other healthy habits could help. Drink plenty of fluids, get adequate exercise and cut down on alcohol consumption. Avoid smoking because smoking lowers your body's ability to fight off the virus. Stress also weakens the immune system, so try to relax and get plenty of rest.
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October 2005
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